SMMR (small molecule metabolite reporters) for use as in vivo glucose biosensors

ABSTRACT

Small Molecule Metabolite Reporters (SMMRs) for use as in vivo glucose biosensors, sensor compositions, and methods of use, are described. The SMMRs include boronic acid-containing xanthene, coumarin, carbostyril and phenalene-based small molecules which are used for monitoring glucose in vivo, advantageously on the skin.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention provides compositions and methods for designing smallmolecule metabolite reporters (SMMRs) for optical reporting of cellmetabolism and intracellular or extracellular metabolite or analyteconcentrations. The specific application of this work is to designmolecules that are able to optically report the concentration of thebiologically active molecule D-glucose, including other small moleculeanalytes or metabolic processes, in or near human keratinocytes locatedwithin the viable epidermis of human or mammalian skin. The skin glucoselevels are then used to infer blood glucose levels. In particular, thisinvention provides compositions and methods for several non-invasivetechniques to determine in vivo blood glucose levels based upon thedirect measurement of glucose levels present in the skin.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Identifying and understanding the risk factors associated with diabetesis invaluable for the development and evaluation of effectiveintervention strategies. Lacking normal regulatory mechanisms, diabeticsare encouraged to strive for optimal control through a modulated lifestyle approach that focuses on dietary control, exercise, and glucoseself-testing with the timely administration of insulin or oralhypoglycemic medications. Invasive forms of self-testing are painful andfraught with a multitude of psychosocial hurdles, and are resisted bymost diabetics. Alternatives to the currently available invasive bloodglucose testing are highly desirable.

Conventional approaches seek to reduce or eliminate the skin trauma,pain, and blood waste associated with traditional invasive glucosemonitoring technologies. In general, non-invasive optical blood glucosemonitoring requires no samples and involves external irradiation withelectromagnetic radiation and measurement of the resulting optical flux.Glucose levels are derived from the spectral information followingcomparison to reference spectra for glucose and background interferants,reference calibrants, and/or application of advanced signal processingmathematical algorithms. Candidate radiation-based technologiesinclude: 1) mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopy, 2) near-infrared (NIR)spectroscopy, 3) far-infrared (FIR) spectroscopy, 4) radio waveimpedance, 5) infrared photoacoustic spectroscopy and 6) Ramanspectroscopy. Each of these methods uses optical sensors, and relies onthe premise that the absorption pattern of infrared light (700-3000 nm)can be quantitatively related to the glucose concentration. Othersubstances such as water, protein, and hemoglobin are known to absorbinfrared light at these wavelengths and easily obscure the relativelyweak glucose signal.

Other approaches are based on microvascular changes in the retina;acoustical impedance, NMR spectroscopy and optical hydrogels thatquantify glucose levels in tear fluid. While putatively non-invasive,these technologies have yet to be demonstrated as viable in clinicaltesting.

Nearly non-invasive techniques tend to rely on interstitial fluidextraction from skin. This can be accomplished using permeabilityenhancers, sweat inducers, and/or suction devices with or without theapplication of electrical current. One device recently approved by theFDA relies on reverse iontophoresis, utilizing an electrical currentapplied to the skin. The current pulls out salt, which carries water,which in turn carries glucose. The glucose concentration of thisextracted fluid is measured and is proportional to that of blood. Thistechnology, in keeping with its nearly non-invasive description, iscommonly associated with some discomfort and requires at least twicedaily calibrations against conventional blood glucose measurements(e.g., invasive lancing).

Other nearly non-invasive blood glucose monitoring techniques similarlyinvolve transcutaneous harvesting for interstitial fluid measurement.Other technologies for disrupting the skin barrier to obtaininterstitial fluid include: 1) dissolution with chemicals; 2)microporation with a laser, sound, or electrical stimulation; 3)penetration with a thin needle; and/or 4) suction with a pump. Minimallyinvasive blood glucose monitoring can also involve the insertion of anindwelling glucose monitor under the skin to measure the interstitialfluid glucose concentration. These monitors typically rely on optical orenzymatic sensors. Technologically innovative, these in situ sensorshave had limited success. Implantable glucose oxidase sensors have beenlimited by local factors causing unstable signal output, whereas opticalsensors must overcome signal obfuscation by blood constituents as wellas interference by substances with absorption spectra similar toglucose. Moreover, inflammation associated with subcutaneous monitoringmay contribute to systematic errors requiring repositioning,recalibration or replacement, and more research is needed to evaluatethe effects of variable local inflammation at the sensor implantationsite on glucose concentration and transit time.

Interstitial fluid glucose concentrations have previously been shown tobe similar to simultaneously measured fixed or fluctuating blood glucoseconcentrations (Bantle et al., Journal of Laboratory and ClinicalMedicine 130:436-441, 1997; Sternberg et al., Diabetes Care18:1266-1269, 1995). Such studies helped validate non-invasive/minimallyinvasive technologies for blood glucose monitoring, insofar as many ofthese technologies measure glucose in blood as well as interstitialfluid.

A non-invasive glucose monitor that is portable, simple and rapid touse, and that provides accurate clinical information is highlydesirable. In particular, the ability to derive primary and secondaryorder information regarding real time, dynamic glucose metabolism (suchas the direction and rate of change of bioavailable glucose distributedwithin the blood and interstitial fluid space) is highly desirable.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In vivo fluorescence (autofluorescence) has been used for a number ofyears to determine the metabolic state and to monitor pharmaceuticaleffects in cells and tissues (Dellinger et al., Biotechnol Appl Biochem,28(Pt. 1): 25-32, 1998). Consideration of the photophysics involved inautofluorescence rapidly leads one to the conclusion that the use ofautofluorescence alone as the analytic probe imposes some severelimitations on any measurement technique.

Fluorescence techniques are capable of detecting molecular species atpicomole levels or less. This sensitivity arises because of thesimplicity of detecting single photons against a dark background. Thisadvantage disappears if there are other fluorescent species in thedetection volume. Fluorescence intensity is also not an absolutetechnique and must be referenced to some internal standard using aratiometric or comparative method.

It has been shown that fluorophores, or colored dyes utilizingabsorption spectroscopy can be used to measure glucose in solution orserum by using series of separate reagents. These generic reagentsinclude glucose oxidase (which oxidizes glucose forming hydrogenperoxide); peroxidase (generally, horseradish peroxidase: HRP) used tocreate an oxidizing reaction in the presence of hydrogen peroxide withthe dye or fluorophore; and a dye reagent or fluorophore, which changesits color or fluorescence spectrum when brought in contact with hydrogenperoxide, and peroxidase. The resultant colored or fluorescent speciesis measured with a calorimeter or fluorimeter and the amount of glucosein solution is calculated. In addition, other analytical techniques havebeen shown to be commercially useful for measuring hydrogen peroxidegenerated from the reaction of glucose oxidase and glucose.

The methods and compositions of the present invention effectivelydetermine the glucose concentration in blood for a living organism bynon-invasive, in vivo measurement of the glucose level in skin by meansof fluorescence measurements of metabolic indicators/reporters ofglucose metabolism. Disclosed are dyes used as metabolic indicators thatallow for specific in vivo monitoring of metabolites, which are used asindicators of metabolic activity. Dyes characterized by this inventionare referred to herein as a small molecule metabolite reporters(“SMMRs”) or alternatively, “small molecule multi-domain reporters(“SMMDRs”.) In many cases the description in the specification willapply to both terms.

The invention relates in one aspect to SMMRs which comprise novelxanthene-based boronic acid compounds. The SMMRs may be used in sensorcompositions for, e.g., direct measurement of glucose, and in otherdiagnostic or analytical methods as described herein. In an embodimentthese compounds are of the following formula (I):

wherein

-   -   D is a heteroatom;    -   R₁ and R₂ are different and are selected from the group        consisting of H, OH, NH₂, NO₂, OCH₃, N(CH₃)₂, A, or, R₁ and R₂,        taken together with the ring to which they are attached, form        R₇;    -   R₃ and R₄ are different and are selected from the group        consisting of H,        (OH)₂, M, or R₃ and R₄, taken together with the ring to which        they are attached, form R₈;    -   R₅ and R₆ are different and are selected from the group        consisting of H or    -    wherein Q is H, COOH, B(OH)₂, or M;    -   A is OH, NH₃,    -   R₇ is    -   R₈ is    -   M is    -   L, when present, is an amino-containing linking moiety;    -   R₁ and R₂, and R₃ and R₄, are adjacent to each other on the        rings on which they reside; and    -   at least one boronic acid moiety is present; and salts thereof.

“Amino-containing linking moieties” may include moieties comprising asubstituted or unsubstituted amino group, an amido group or asulfonamido group. In an embodiment, xanthene-based boronic acidcompounds of the invention include those of the formula (II):

wherein

-   -   R₁ and R₂ are different and may be A, or, R₁ and R₂, taken        together with the ring to which they are attached, form R₇;    -   R₃ and R₄ are different and are selected from the group        consisting of H,    -    OH, B(OH)₂, M, or R₃ and R₄, taken together with the ring to        which they are attached, form R₈;    -   R₆ is    -   A is    -   R₇ is    -   R₈ is    -   M is    -   L, when present, is an amino-containing linking moiety; and    -   R₁ and R₂, and R₃ and R₄, are adjacent to each other on the        rings on which they reside; and salts thereof.

In another embodiment, xanthene-based boronic acid compounds of theinvention include those of the formula (III):

wherein

-   -   R₁ and R₂ are different and are selected from the group        consisting of H, OH, NH₂, NO₂, OCH₃, N(CH₃)₂, A, or, R₁ and R₂,        taken together with the ring to which they are attached, form        R₇;    -   R₃ and R₄ are different and are selected from the group        consisting of H,    -    OH, M, or R₃ and R₄, taken together with the ring to which they        are attached, form R₈;    -   R₅ and R₆ are different and are selected from the group        consisting of H or    -    wherein Q is H or M;    -   A is    -   R₇ is    -   R₈ is    -   M is    -   L, when present, is an amino-containing linking moiety; and    -   R₁ and R₂, and R₃ and R₄, are adjacent to each other on the        rings on which they reside; and salts thereof.

Examples of xanthene-based SMMRs of the invention include:

The invention relates in another aspect to SMMRs which comprise novelphenalene-based boronic acid compounds. In an embodiment these compoundsare phenalene-1-one compounds of the following formula (IV):

wherein

-   -   M is    -   L, when present, is an amino-containing linking moiety; and        salts thereof.

Examples of such phenalene-based boronic acid compounds include:

The invention relates in another aspect to SMMRs which comprise novelboronic acid-containing coumarin or carbostyril derivative compounds. Inan embodiment these compounds include those of the following formula(V):

wherein

-   -   D is a heteroatom (e.g., O or N);    -   R₉ is H, OH, CH₃, CF₃, M, or an amino or substituted amino        group;    -   R₁₀ is H, CH₃, or M;    -   R₁₁, R₁₂, and R₁₃ are individually H, OH, alkoxy, M, or an amino        or substituted amino group;    -   R₁₄, when present, is H or CH₃;    -   M is    -   at least one boronic acid moiety is present; and salts thereof.

A substituted amino group may include where R₁₁, R₁₂, and R₁₃, takentogether with the ring to which they are attached, form anitrogen-containing polycycle. Examples of such boronic acid-containingcoumarin or carbostyril SMMRs include:

It will be noted that the structure of some of the compounds of theinvention includes asymmetric carbon atoms. It is to be understoodaccordingly that the isomers arising from such asymmetry (e.g., allenantiomers and diastereomers) are included within the scope of theinvention, unless indicated otherwise. Such isomers can be obtained insubstantially pure form by classical separation techniques and bystereochemically controlled synthesis. Alkenes can include either the E-or Z-geometry, where appropriate. Tautomeric forms of compounds of theinvention are also intended to be included within the scope of theinvention, unless indicated otherwise.

In another aspect, a chromophore of the following rational designstructure is disclosed:

wherein Het represents a heteroatomic group, e.g., containing N, O, orS; B(OH)₂; M or R₈ (as set forth in Formula (I))); or mono ordi-substituted N, NO₂ or N(CH₃)₂; which groups may be identical ordifferent. Heteroatomic groups may include amino, amido, carbonyl,hydroxyl, thiol, and thio.

This invention also provides for fluorescence measurements ofextracellular and intracellular reporter molecules placed into thecytosol, nucleus, or organelles of cells within intact, living, tissuethat track the concentration of blood glucose in an organism. When anyone of a series of metabolites is measured using this technique, themolar concentration of blood glucose can be calculated. Direct orindirect fluorescence measurements of glucose using one or more of thefollowing measurements is described: pH (as lactate/H⁺), membranereduction-oxidation electric potential, NAD(P)H (nicotinamide adeninedinucleotide (phosphate), reduced form) for energy transfer, FAD⁺(flavin adenine dinucleotide, oxidized form) for energy transfer,ATP/ADP ratio, Ca²⁺-pumping rate, Mg²⁺-pumping rate, Na⁺-pumping rate,K⁺-pumping rate, and vital mitochondrial membrane stains/dyes/moleculesfluorescence response. These analytes, measured in skin using thetechniques taught herein, are used to provide a complete picture ofepidermal skin glycolytic metabolism where local epidermal analyte(glucose) quantities are proportional to the concentration of glucose insystemic blood, specifically the capillary fields within the papillarylayer of the dermis (corium). Temperature and/or nitric oxidemeasurement may also be combined with the above measurements for bettercalibration and determination of glucose concentrations.

The invention further provides sensor compositions that are applied toat least one surface of living tissue, organs, interstitial fluid, andwhole organisms and transported into the tissue at an effectiveconcentration. The sensor composition can include at least one SMMR atan effective concentration such that when the at least one SMMR isbrought in contact with one or more specific metabolites or analytes, achange in fluorescence or absorption occurs, thereby allowingquantification of the change in fluorescence or absorption.

The primary embodiment of this invention utilizes a series of molecules(SMMRs) specifically designed for topical delivery onto tissue, such asthe viable epidermis, which when applied to the tissue will reportglucose concentration using any one or more of several reportingmechanisms. The most significant advantage of the present invention isincreased sensitivity in reporting glucose concentration, whileeliminating the requirement to draw body fluid from the skin as isrequired by current conventional techniques.

The in vivo information obtained when the SMMR is brought in contactwith the one or more metabolites or analytes can include, but is notlimited to, assessment of metabolic function; diagnosis of metabolicdisease state; monitoring and control of disease state; stress status ofcells, tissues and organs; determination of vitality and viability ofcells based on metabolic function; critical care monitoring; diagnosisand monitoring of cardiovascular diseases, autoimmune disorders,neurological disorders, degenerative diseases; determination ofmetabolic concentration; and cancer diagnosis, detection, staging andprognosis.

For example, the in vivo information obtained may provide detailedinformation on glucose metabolism, fructose metabolism and galactosemetabolism; advanced-glycosylated end products; monitoring and controlof diseases such as diabetes, cancer, stress and organ transplantation.

The sensor compositions used in these methods for monitoring theconcentration of one or more metabolite(s) or analyte(s) can beformulated as, but are not limited to, emulsions, ointments, disposablegel film patches, reservoir devices, creams, paints, polar solvents,non-polar solvents, or any combination thereof.

Penetration of the sensor composition can be accomplished using anactive transport technique or a passive transport technique, such as,for example, electroporation, laser poration, sonic poration, ultrasonicporation, iontophoresis, mechanical-poration, solvent transport,tattooing, wicking, microneedle or pressurized delivery. In addition,penetration of the sensor composition to the desired depth can beaccomplished by combining the composition with various molecular sizeattachments.

Typically, the quantification of the change in fluorescence orabsorption is monitored using fluorescence or absorption spectroscopy.

An effective concentration of the sensor composition is, for example, atleast between 0.01 to 500 μg/ml, between 0.1 to 500 μg/ml, between 1.0to 150 μg/ml, between 1 to 100 μg/ml, and between 10 to 100 μg/ml. TheSMMR can be introduced in a low concentration in a range from 10 μM to1000 μM and in a volume from 200 μL to 0.1 μL, respectively (e.g.,introducing the SMMR at a concentration in the range of 200 μL of a 10μM SMMR solution to 0.1 μl of a 1000 μM SMMR solution). One specificapplication of the sensor composition is, for example, a 5 μL volume ofa 400 μM SMMR solution, or a 10 μL volume at 200 μM concentration.

Once one or more SMMRs are activated as a result of placement within theskin, fluorescence measurements monitor the response of the skin cellsto glucose. As described herein, the fluorescence mechanism used iseither a direct or indirect indication of the glucose concentration inthe target cell environment. Fluorescence is typically measured using anoptical reader. The optical reader calculates the skin response toglucose, applies first principles mathematical models to the response,and provides a determination of the blood glucose levels. Choosing theparticular commercially available or custom designed optical reader thatis compatible for use with the methods and compositions of thisinvention is within the ability of one skilled in the art.

One embodiment of this invention utilizes indirect means to measure skinand blood glucose in vivo by placing one or more SMMRs into the viableepidermis to form a fluorescent product. This fluorescent product isprovided by one of many specifically described reporting mechanisms,whereby the SMMR fluorescent signal changes with respect to the effectsof glucose concentration on cell metabolism. The quantity offluorescence, or the fluorescent ratio at two or more emissionwavelengths, is indicative of the total glucose concentration within theskin, either intracellular or extracellular as described here. The skinglucose thus determined is used to infer blood glucose levels ascalibrated and described herein.

In another embodiment, a method for monitoring in vivo blood glucoselevels uses SMMRs that directly bind or respond to glucose itself. Themechanisms of glucose reporting thus does not use cell metabolism, as inthe first embodiment, but rather the SMMR responds to glucose by one ofseveral direct mechanisms to produce a fluorescent product. The measuredfluorescence is thus a direct reporter of the interstitial fluid orextracellular glucose concentrations. Thus, the skin glucose leveldirectly determined in vivo is used to infer blood glucose levels ascalibrated and described within this invention text.

This invention describes the unique physicochemical, photochemical,photophysical and biological properties of SMMR molecules, as well astheir design, synthesis, and application. The use of an SMMR enablesfluorescence measurements from picomolar through millimolar in vivoglucose levels in living skin tissue, or interstitial fluid, either ofwhich are indicative of the blood glucose levels. The inventiondescribed here relates to the indirect or direct determination of skinglucose levels for use in the monitoring and control of diabetesmellitus. Embodiments of the invention use SMMR fluorescence to measureskin glucose levels without withdrawing bodily fluids. When theSMMR-based skin glucose measurements are made, the blood glucose levelsare directly inferred.

The quantity of glucose in the epidermis is supplied by mass transportfrom the blood vessels and capillary fields located within the dermis,immediately beneath the epidermis. The movement of glucose from theblood stream to the epidermis is concentration dependent and non-insulinregulated providing the basis for measurement of blood glucose as adirect inference from skin glucose measurement. The rate of glucosetransport into the epidermis is indicative of the differentialconcentration between skin glucose and blood glucose levels. The rate oftransport into the extracellular spaces between human skin cells allowsan accurate first principles mathematical extrapolation of blood glucoselevels. Once modeled, the kinetics of blood glucose transport to theskin from the blood enables the determination of the precise firstprinciples mathematical relationship between the rate of change of skinglucose and the rate of change of blood glucose. Thus rapid bloodglucose concentration changes up or down can be accurately tracked byknowing the skin glucose mean concentration levels and the rate ofchange of skin glucose levels. First principles mathematical models canbe developed for the individual case, preferably for small localpopulations, and most preferably for a universal patient case.

The SMMR-derived fluorescence reports glucose levels within orsurrounding human keratinocyte cells as an indication of blood glucoselevels. The movement of glucose from the interstitial fluid surroundingthe keratinocytes into the keratinocytes of the epidermis isconcentration dependent and non-insulin regulated. That is, the glucoseis transported into these cells via non-insulin regulated glucosetransporter GluT1 (GenBank Accession Number: K03195), not insulinregulated glucose transporter GluT4 (GenBank Accession Number: M91463).This transport mechanism provides the basis for measurement of bloodglucose as a direct inference from intracellular keratinocyte glucosemeasurement.

Also provided are noninvasive methods for monitoring in vivo bloodglucose levels. According to these methods at least one small moleculemetabolic reporter is applied to at least one surface of skin for apredetermined period of time causing penetration of the one or moreSMMRs to a depth of about 10 μm, wherein the depth corresponds with thebottom of the dead stratum corneum layer, to about 175 μm, wherein thedepth corresponds with the top of the dermal layer, into the epidermis.The one or more SMMRs come in contact with one or more metabolites oranalytes and a change in the concentration of the one or moremetabolites or analytes is monitored by detecting changes in the SMMRsusing an optical reader. The change in the concentration of the one ormore metabolites or analytes is then correlated with in vivo bloodglucose levels.

Also included in the invention is a reagent strip for use in a glucosemeasuring instrument comprising a polymer strip and a knownconcentration of at least one small molecule metabolic reporter, whereinwhen a sample of a biological fluid containing an amount of glucose isinteracted with the reagent strip, a change in fluorescence orabsorption of the one or more molecular sensor proteins occurs, and thechange is measured by the glucose measuring instrument, therebydetecting the glucose concentration of the biological fluid.

The change in fluorescence or absorption can be monitored usingfluorescence or absorption spectroscopy. Those of ordinary skill in theart will recognize that any fluorescence or absorption spectroscopictechniques can be used in accordance with the invention.

The invention also provides sensor systems that include a device havinga component that transmits radiation to a material or tissue, acomponent that detects radiation emitted from a material or tissue, anda component to display the detection results, each component is operablylinked. The sensor systems further include an applicator that deliversthe sensor composition of the invention to the material or tissue.Typically, there is an air interface between the device and the materialor tissue, wherein the air interface measures a resulting excitationradiation emitted from the irradiated sensor composition.

The device included in the sensor system can emit radiation at one ormore wavelengths that have been chosen to specifically excite the SMMRmixture that is applied to the material or tissue. The sensorcomposition can include a reporter dye and a marker dye, oralternatively, a dye exhibiting a wavelength shift in absorption orfluorescence emission in the presence of a metabolite. The sensorcomposition can be present at a depth from the surface of the skin ofabout 10 μm to about 175 μm in the epidermis in a concentration that iseffective for detection of one or more metabolites or analytes in abiological sample.

The sensor system can detect radiation at one or more wavelengths thathave been chosen to specifically identify fluorescence emission that hasbeen scattered back to the system from the sensor composition.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1. Glucose pathway of living cells

FIG. 2. Summary of photochemical reaction pathways

FIG. 3. Absorption and emission spectra for 5 uM of an exampleratiometric pH reporting dye in PBS. Fluorescence spectra were measuredusing 532 nm to excite the dye.

FIG. 4. Fluorescence emission spectra of an example ratiometric pHreporting dye loaded into the A-431 cells. Nigericin is present andallows intracellular pH to equilibrate extracellular pH.

FIG. 5. “Absolute” and normalized Fluorescence, auto-Fluorescence andAir spectra.

FIG. 6. Difference and relative spectra of normalized Fluorescencespectra.

FIG. 7. Glucose, Lactate and SMMR measured ratio kinetics.

FIG. 8. Kinetics of physiological parameters and ratio.

FIG. 9. Normalized and relative changes of ratio, glucose, and lactatein time.

FIG. 10. Fluorescence ratio changes after anesthesia (0.1 cc ofketamine).

FIG. 11 a. Data from a clamp study, comparison between experimental (YSIvalues) and calculated values of ΔR (from the equation ΔR=αΔG+βΔL usingthe coefficients α and β from above.

FIG. 11 b. Data from another clamp study, comparison betweenexperimental (YSI values) and calculated values of ΔR (from the equationΔR=αΔG+βΔL+ΔR_(a)(t−t_(a)) A using the coefficients α, β andΔR_(a)(t−t_(a)) from above.

FIG. 11 c. Data from yet another clamp study, comparison betweenexperimental (YSI values) and calculated values of ΔR (from theΔR=αΔG+βΔL+ΔR_(a)(t−t_(a)) A using the coefficients α, β andΔR_(a)(t−t_(a)) from above.

FIG. 12. NADH peak fluorescence signals versus time as glucoseconcentration is changed. Glucose concentrations are annotated in theFigure. The first annotation with 50% PBS is a control measurement.

FIG. 13. Glucose concentration is varied from 0 to 66 mg/dL and the NADHpeak signals exhibit corresponding changes in intensity.

FIG. 14. NADH measurements versus sequence number. The glucose values(in mg/dL) for each data point are (from left to right): 0, 0.1, 0.5,1.0, 2.0, 5.0, 2.5, 1.0, 0.5, 0.25, 0.16, and 4.0 mg/dL. Each pointrepresents the mean and standard deviation of 5 data points. NOTE: Thex-axis label sequence number.

FIG. 15. Corrected NADH Signal of FIG. 14 for each data point (as fromleft to right), corresponding to a concentration 0, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0,5.0, 2.5, 1.0, 0.5, 0.25, 0.16, and 4.0.

FIG. 16. Corrected NADH Signal versus Glucose concentration for upwardtrend and downward trend data together.

FIG. 17. A membrane-bound Rh123 peak fluorescence signal change(decrease in signal as an indication of membrane potential change)versus time as glucose concentration is changed. Glucose concentrationswere increased at the 15-minute point in the Figure. The firstannotation with 50% PBS is a control measurement.

FIG. 18. Glucose concentration is varied from 0 to 66 mg/dL and theRh123 (bottom plot) peak signals exhibit corresponding changes inintensity due to membrane potential changes.

FIG. 19. Rh123 fluorescence quenching (as an indication of membranepotential changes) versus sequence number and glucose concentration. Theglucose values (in mg/dL) for each data point is (from left to right):0, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 5.0, 2.5, 1.0, 0.5, 0.25, 0.16, and 4.0. Eachpoint represents the mean and standard deviation of 5 data points. Thex-axis label is sequence number.

FIG. 20. Schematic representation of the products of the xanthenelibrary in terms of Markush structures and some specific sub structures.

FIG. 21 a. Absorption and emission spectra for BeXan type dyes.

FIG. 21 b. Absorption and emission spectra for fluorescein.

FIG. 22. Malachite green absorption spectrum (left), with molecularstructure (right).

FIG. 23. Rhodamine B absorption spectrum (left), with molecularstructure (right).

FIG. 24. The Boronic acid-diol equilibrium.

FIG. 25. Typical titration curves of a phenyl boronic analog (2-4 boundto diol; 1-3 unbound).

FIG. 26. Argofluor-327d in equilibrium with a diol.

FIG. 27. Predicted emission wavelengths of several proposedfluorophores.

FIG. 28 a. The absorption spectra of p-nitroaniline in differentsolvents.

FIG. 28 b. The absorption spectra of p-boronic acid aniline in differentsolvents.

FIG. 28 c. p-boronic acid spectra for acid (pH 2) and alkali (pH 12)conditions.

FIG. 29. Response of pyrene boronic acid fluorescence in the presence ofglucose (methanol as solvent). Absorption spectra (top), fluorescencespectra (middle), and relative fluorescence intensity (bottom) as afunction of glucose concentration.

FIG. 30. Some Bidentate Glucose reporter molecules.

FIG. 31. Illustrative examples of SMMDR molecules.

FIG. 32. SMMDR molecule concepts in which phenylboronic acid is part ofa push-pull fluorophore. Carboxamide groups provide auxiliary binding.

FIG. 33. In this image, the glucose interacts with a cyclic peptide thatcontains four serine residues, eight glycine structures, and atryptophan and a tyrosine residue. The dotted lines represent hydrogenbonds. The two aromatic residues are above the plane of the peptide ringand in this conformation would be expected to undergo efficient energytransfer. The model simply represents a starting point from which asmall glucose binding peptide might be built.

FIG. 34. Compounds to test cyclic peptide and crown-ether recognition ofglucose.

FIG. 35. Conceptual illustration of glucose-binding reporters thatoperate by repulsion and size exclusion.

FIG. 36. SMMDR Development strategy: Library generation and virtualscreening.

FIG. 37. Combinatorial Libraries based on small cyclic peptides.

FIG. 38. Illustration of the action of the 2-phenylquinazolin-4(3H)-onecompounds.

FIG. 39. “Push-Pull” Fluorophores.

FIG. 40. Predicted wavelength changes due to annellation andsubstitution.

FIG. 41. Predicted Wavelength effect of ring annellation in a boronicacid probe compound.

FIG. 42. Comparison of Coumarins and Xanthenes.

FIG. 43. Comparison of Coumarin, Xanthene, and Seminaphthorhodafluoranalogs.

FIG. 44. Novel Seminaphthorhodafluor compounds with predicted longwavelength and ratiometric pH properties.

FIG. 45. Spectra of esculetin demonstrating absorbance (top),fluorescence (middle), and absorption ratio at 384 nm/344 nm (bottom) asa function of pH.

FIG. 46. Illustration of the excitation scheme and signal generated by aphase sensitive flash photolysis apparatus.

FIG. 47. Schematic overview of a phase sensitive flash photolysisapparatus.

FIG. 48. Schematic overview of an in vitro glucose probe not requiringstrip use.

FIG. 49. Strip technology designs when using direct fluorescencemolecules.

FIG. 50. Absorption and fluorescence spectra of Argofluor-327d obtainedas a function of glucose concentration.

FIG. 51. Fluorescence and absorption spectra showing effect of glucoseon the complexation of phenyl boronic acid with esculetin.

FIG. 52. Glucose response rate using coumarin-boronic acid-basedreporter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The features and other details of the invention will now be moreparticularly described with reference to the accompanying drawings andpointed out in the claims. It will be understood that particularembodiments described herein are shown by way of illustration and not aslimitations of the invention. The principal features of this inventioncan be employed in various embodiments without departing from the scopeof the invention. All parts and percentages are by weight unlessotherwise specified.

Definitions

The singular forms “a”, “and” and “the” include plural referents unlessthe context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term smallmolecule metabolic reporter “SMMR” and/or “small molecule multi-domainreporter “SMMDR” includes one or more small molecule metabolic reporters“SMMRs” and/or “small molecule multi-domain reporters “SMMDRs”. Thoseskilled in the art will recognize that the terms “SMMR” and “SMMRs”, and“SMMDR” and “SMMDRs” are used interchangeably herein.

The term “biologically active molecule” includes, but is not limited to,enzymes, coenzymes, metabolites, analytes, reactive species,polypeptides, proteins, cofactors, small molecules and othermacromolecules of physiological significance including mixtures oractive fragments or subunits thereof. A “small molecule” includes amolecule from 100 Da to 250 kDa. Molecules of this molecular weightrange have a demonstrated ability for use as quantitative reporters ofglucose activity.

The terms “small molecule metabolic reporter(s)”, “SMMR(s)”, “analyteenhancing molecules”, “reporter” and “reporters” include, but are notlimited to, fluorophores, protein-labeled fluorophores, proteins with aphotooxidizable cofactor (such as FADH contained in a glucose oxidase),and proteins with another intercalated fluorophore.

A “chromophore” includes a molecule exhibiting specific absorption orfluorescence emission when excited by energy from an external source.This is a more generic term than fluorophore.

A “fluorophore” includes a molecule exhibiting specific fluorescenceemission when excited by energy from an external source.

An “intercalated fluorophore” includes fluorophores that will fluorescewhen intercalated with a molecule. For example, GlucoseOxidase-Intercalated Fluorophore (GO-IF) is a molecule with specificglucose binding sites. The fluorescent properties will change whenglucose binds to the molecule, causing a measurable change.

A “dye” includes molecules having large absorptivity or highfluorescence quantum yield and which demonstrates affinity for certainmaterials or organic (cellular) structures.

A “xanthene dye” includes a molecule having a xanthene-like skeletalstructure, which exhibits large absorptivity and high fluorescencequantum yield and which demonstrates affinity for certain materials ororganic (cellular) structures.

The phrase “energy transfer from reducing equivalents (e.g., NAD/NADH,NAD(P)/NAD(P)H, FAD/FADH₂) indicating SMMRs” refers to a use of SMMRswhereby the presence of these reducing equivalents molecules, isdetected by excitation of the reducing equivalents molecules from anexternal source, energy transfer from the reducing equivalentsmolecule(s) to an SMMR, and detection of the fluorescence emission atthe SMMR emission wavelength.

The phrase “absorption/diffuse reflection or fluorescence spectrum”refers to two types of spectra measured independently. Theabsorption/diffuse reflection spectrum refers to the energy reflectionspectrum from a material reported in either the dimensions ofreflectance or absorbance versus wavelength. The fluorescence spectrumis measured independently as the fluorescence emission intensity or thefluorescence lifetime of a fluorophore following excitation from anexternal source.

The phrase “molecular size attachment” refers to the molecular size inAngstroms (Å), which is related to molecular weight in Daltons (Da), ofan attachment added as an adjunct to an SMMR. As used herein, “molecularsize attachments” includes adducts to the fluorescent moieties of SMMRsthat include, but are not limited to, structural modifications offluorescence SMMRs as the additions to the fluorescence structure of:acetoxy methyl esters, chloro-methyl derivatives, alkyl chain adducts,highly charged moieties, enzyme substrate mimics, enzyme cofactortethers, and membrane binding tethers.

As used herein, a “reporter” includes an SMMR having the property ofoptical or fluorescence signal related to the quantity of analyte in theimmediate vicinity of the SMMR. Thus, as the analyte quantity increases,the fluorescence signal changes (up or down) in proportion.

As used herein, a “marker” includes a molecule having the property ofyielding a fluorescence signal that is constant when applied to targetcells or tissues. Its main purpose is for use as a reference signalchannel. As such, it is applied in a ratiometric measurement forcorrection of a reporter signal. The variation in physiological andoptical characteristics of individual subjects requires a referencechannel signal to correct or normalize a reporter channel signal whenthe ratio of reporter to marker is used for quantitative applications.

As used herein, a “sensor” includes a handheld device capable of makingabsorption or fluorescence measurements at one or more wavelengths, andconverting the ratios and sums of these measurements into analyteconcentrations. These analyte concentrations are used to infer the rateor quantity of a specific metabolic process.

As used herein, a “metabolite” includes a substance produced by ametabolic process, such as glycolysis, which can be quantitativelymeasured as an indication of the rate or quantity of a specificmetabolic process.

As used herein, an “analyte” includes a measurable parameter, usinganalytical chemistry, which can be quantitatively measured as anindication of the rate and quantity of a specific metabolic process. Theterm analyte is a generic term describing such concepts as metabolites,ions, processes, conditions, physico-chemical parameters, or metabolicresults that can be used to infer the rate or quantity of specificmetabolic processes.

As used herein, a “response range” includes an analyte range (lower andupper limits) over which a metabolic process, and its measuredabsorption or fluorescence signal, follow a linear or definedmathematical function.

The phrase “physico-chemical parameter” refers to a subset of broadlydefined analyte parameters specifically related to the physicalchemistry constants of materials. These constants can be used incombination with the measurement of other analytes to infer the rate orquantity of specific metabolic processes. Such constants referspecifically to, e.g., atomic mass, Faraday constant, Boltzmannconstant, molar volume, dielectric properties, and the like.

As used herein, “wicking” includes the flow of a liquid into a solidmaterial via the pull of gravity, Brownian motion, adhesion, masstransport, or capillary action such that a natural movement of a liquidoccurs into a solid material.

The phrases “direct metabolic reporters,” and “indirect metabolicreporters” refer to the mechanism of action of SMMR for reportingglucose concentration. Direct metabolic reporters report theconcentration of glucose directly, whereas indirect metabolic reportersreport the concentration of analytes used to infer the concentration ofglucose.

As used herein, an “octanol-water coefficient (K_(ow))” includes ameasure of the extent to which a solute molecule is distributed betweenwater and octanol in a mixture. The octanol-water partition coefficientis the ratio of a chemical's solubility (concentration) in octanol tothat in water using a two-phase mixture at equilibrium.

As used herein, “toxicity” includes the degree or quality of being toxicor hazardous to the health and well being of human and other mammalianorganisms, organs, tissues, and cells.

The phrase “specialized tattoo” or more precisely the “active viewingwindow” refers to an area of tissue treated with an SMMR. That area isused for viewing the fluorescence ratio measurements of the SMMRinteraction with tissue, in order to directly measure, calculate, orotherwise infer the concentration of skin and blood glucose or othermetabolites of interest.

As used herein, “organ” includes a structure that contains at least twodifferent types of tissue functioning together for a common purpose.Examples of organs in the body include, but are not limited to, thebrain, heart, liver, kidneys, pancreas, stomach, intestines, lungs, andskin.

As used herein, a “keratinocyte” includes a living cell comprising themajority of the epidermis of mammalian skin. The keratinocyte is uniquein both its proximity to the surface of an organism as well as in itsglycolytic behavior. The keratinocyte metabolizes glucose in such a wayas to produce a number of analytes whereby the glucose concentrationwithin the cell can be inferred.

As used herein, a “mammal” includes both a human and a non-human mammal(e.g., rabbit, mouse, rat, gerbil, cow, horse, sheep, etc.). Transgenicanimals are also encompassed within the scope of the term.

The non-invasive devices, compositions, and methods of the presentinvention directly yield in vivo information for the assessment ofintracellular and extracellular metabolic state, as well as the stressstatus of cells, tissues, and organisms. In a preferred embodiment, thedevices, compositions and methods of the invention can be used tomonitor and determine metabolite concentration levels, and morespecifically, determine blood glucose concentration levels.

The invention provides non-invasive sensor compositions that compriseone or more small molecule metabolic reporters (“SMMRs” or “reporters”).When applied topically to skin, peripheral tissues, or organs, thesereporters are able to penetrate the upper tissue layers and interactwith a specific biologically active molecule in such a way as to reportmetabolic or health status, while not interfering with metabolicfunction. The reporters provide a metabolic signal that can be used formultiple purposes including, but not limited to, assessment of metabolicfunction (e.g., particularly as related to glucose metabolism);diagnosis of metabolic disease states (e.g., as related to advancedglycosylated end-products); monitoring and control of disease state;stress status of cells, tissues and organs; determination of vitalityand viability of cells based on metabolic function; critical caremonitoring; diagnosis and monitoring of cardiovascular diseases,autoimmune disorders, neurological disorders, degenerative diseases;determination of metabolic concentration; and cancer diagnosis,detection, staging and prognosis. Specifically, applying the reportersof the invention to living peripheral or epithelial tissue providesdetailed information on the state of multiple metabolic pathways inliving organisms that can be analyzed using low-cost, hand heldinstrumentation.

The invention provides techniques whereby one or more reporters areapplied to solid tissue (i.e., are introduced to the upper cell layersof tissues and organisms following local and/or topical administration).The reporters are added in trace quantities (from about 10 to about 1000μL of 0.1 to 200 μM, preferably from about 5 to about 100 μL), using asubstance that is transparent to visible light and that has apre-specified temporary residence at the application site (e.g., 2days-up to 30 days, 24-48 hours, preferably 2-6 hours, more preferably30 seconds to 5 minutes, and most preferably 5 seconds to 5 minutes).Contemplated diffusion times include periods less than 48 hrs, 24 hrs,10 hrs, 6 hrs, 2 hrs, 1 hr, 30 min, 15 min, 10 min, 5 min, 1 min, 30sec, 10 sec, or 1 sec. Reporters that are placed on skin are able topenetrate the skin and be transported to a depth from the surface offrom about 10 μm to about 300 μm into the tissue and are brought incontact with a specific metabolite, wherein a change in fluorescence orabsorption (e.g., measured using fluorescence or absorptionspectroscopy) of the one or more reporters occurs, thereby allowingquantification of the change in fluorescence or absorption that providesdetailed in vivo information regarding picomolar through millimolarcellular metabolite and precursor levels for living tissue, organs,interstitial fluid, and whole organisms.

The reporters can be monitored non-invasively using any low-costinstrumentation capable of directly analyzing the metabolic state intissue (e.g., using optical instrumentation). The reporters are chosento specifically enhance the signal of pre-specified analytes in order toassess metabolic state of a tissue or organism and to yield detailed,real-time information regarding the state of intracellular andextracellular metabolism.

Discussion of Properties of SMMR Compounds: Physicochemical,Photochemical, Photophysical and Biological

SMMR compounds consist of elements of molecular sub-structure whichconfer the special properties required to fulfill their specificmetabolic reporter function:

-   -   1. A fluorescent reporter, with specific photophysical        properties,    -   2. Chemical functional groups that confer affinity to        metabolites, enzymes, cell organelles, membranes, or glucose        itself,    -   3. Structural features that confer specificity between the        target of interest and similar targets, which are present in the        biological medium (e.g., glucose versus fructose).

The chemistry of small molecule metabolic reporter (SMMR) compoundscombines a number of parameters that, in general, results in thefollowing characteristics: SMMR compounds are non-toxic; they have highmolar absorption coefficients, and a high quantum yield of fluorescence.They have a large Stokes shift; they are readily taken up by cells, andare retained in the active form at the target tissue. They undergo alarge change in fluorescence in response to the metabolism monitored,they are photostable, they do not exhibit excited state chemistry, andthey are eventually lost from the body by shedding of the stratumcorneum. The molecular design behind these characteristics is thesubject of this invention.

Toxicity

The metabolic impact of the compounds to be used as SMMRs is low becauseof a number of properties that are common to these molecules. Whenminute quantities may be absorbed into the body they are readilyeliminated from the system via biotransformation (metabolism) of thearomatic rings through hydroxylation by a variety of nonspecific enzymescontained within the microsomes of the liver endoplasmic reticulum.Small, more water soluble metabolites result, which are then eliminatedfrom the body by passing through the glomeruli into the proximal tubulesof the kidney and into the urine. SMMRs have strict requirementsrelative to toxicity. Four main criteria must be met: (1) they do notbind to DNA, (2) they do not disrupt cell membranes, (3) they are usedat low concentration (e.g., 50 μL of 250 μM), and (4) the SMMR isdelivered to a limited volume of tissue, typically the viable epidermis.

The Activity Index (A.I.) of the SMMR compounds is an indication of theeffective dose required to elicit an appropriate response to a metabolicsignal or glucose. It is indicated by the ratio of the Toxic Dose (T.D.)to the Effective Dose (E.D.) as in equation (1). Note that the A.I. forany proposed SMMR must be greater than 1.0 and ideally should be 10,000or more. $\begin{matrix}{{A.I.} = \frac{T.D.}{E.D.}} & ( {{EQ}.\quad 1} )\end{matrix}$

A better indication of the safety of the SMMR would be indicated by theMinimum Activity Index (A.I._(min)) as the ratio of the MaximumTolerated Dose (T.D._(max)) for 100 percent of the tested group,indicating a maximum dose at which no adverse effects occur, to theMaximum Effective Dose used (E.D._(max)), whereby the maximum signaloccurs as equation (2). The larger the A.I._(min) the better toxicity toeffective signal characteristics the SMMR possesses. This number mustalways exceed 1.0 with values greater than 5.0 considered optimum.$\begin{matrix}{{A.I._{\min}} = \frac{T.D._{\max}}{E.D._{\max}}} & ( {{EQ}.\quad 2} )\end{matrix}$

SMMR molecules with quantum yield (φ_(F)) values substantially less thanunity (e.g., less than 0.3) or those with longer fluorescent lifetimesmay show phototoxicity via a photodynamic effect, a process that isunrelated to the inherent toxicity of the SMMR. Phototoxicity arisesfrom reactions of an excited state or from a reactive intermediategenerated by the excited state. Phototoxicity can be minimized by usinglow light doses combined with high quantum yields (e.g., less than 5 mWexcitation with a φ_(F) greater than 0.6), thereby decreasing the energyavailable to form damaging oxygen radicals, and the number of excitedstates generated, respectively.

As a general rule, exogenous materials such as drugs or, with referenceto this embodiment, SMMRs that interact with more than one metabolicpathway have a reduced likelihood of becoming clinically significant dueto the availability of compensatory pathways if one is inhibited.Interactions, and hence toxicity, are likely to be increased if the SMMRis an inhibitor or inducer of a particular enzyme, if the response ofthe SMMR is critically dependent on the concentration and particularlyif turnover of the SMMR occurs via a single specific pathway (see forexample, Johnson, M. D. et al. Clinically significant drug interactions.Postgraduate Medicine 1999; 105(2): 193-222).

To a large extent the rationale for SMMR design has avoided many ofthese problems by targeting normal overall changes in the chemistry ofthe cell rather than the concentration or activity of a specificmetabolite. For example, the monitoring of reducing equivalents within acell by energy transfer does not affect the overall intracellularconcentration of those equivalents nor are there interactions betweenthe enzymes responsible for metabolism and the SMMRs. For somemolecules, the toxicity or carcinogenicity is not related to the parentmolecule but the metabolite of the molecule. This is often a result ofactivity of the liver on the molecule. For example, metabolites ofbenzene are formed by the action of cytochrome P450 in the liver toform, epoxides, phenol, catechol and muconaldehyde. Many of thesecompounds are extremely reactive and toxic and they may be metabolizedfurther to other toxic materials.

Molar Absorption Coefficient

The molar absorption coefficient (ε) of a typical SMMR is high (greaterthan 50,000 dm³ mol⁻¹ cm⁻¹). This implies that the probability of atransition from S₀→S₁ is high. The amount of light absorbed is given bythe Beer-Lambert law as equation (3). $\begin{matrix}{{\log\frac{I_{0}}{I_{t}}} = {A = {ɛ\quad{cl}}}} & ( {{EQ}.\quad 3} )\end{matrix}$

Where, I₀ is the intensity of the incident light, I_(t) is the intensityof the transmitted light, A is the absorbance, ε is the molar absorptioncoefficient, c is the concentration and l is the pathlength. Thisexpression can also be rearranged to give the fraction of incident lightthat is absorbed (I_(a)) as described in equation (4).I _(a)=1−10^(−A)  (EQ. 4)

For an SMMR concentration of 10 μM in a sample thickness of 100 μm(typical skin thickness for skin epidermis), a molar absorptioncoefficient of 50,000 dm³ mol⁻¹ cm⁻¹ results in 11% of the incidentlight being absorbed. Ultimately, the more light absorbed the more willbe converted into fluorescence. In designing an SMMR a high molarabsorption coefficient (ε) is important; practically this means valuesgreater than 50,000 dm³ mol⁻¹ cm⁻¹.

The probability of the S₀→S₁ transition occurring can be explained inmolecular terms by consideration of the type of bonding that is presentin the SMMR. A high probability for the transition requires good overlapbetween the orbitals in the ground and excited state. Such overlap isfound for π-π* transitions and charge transfer states. Transitionsinvolving non-bonding electrons, i.e., n-π* are not as probable andhence the molar absorption coefficients are lower for these type oftransitions. However, the electrons in a non-bonding orbital are higherin energy than electrons in a bonding orbital and therefore the n-π*transition occurs at lower energy than the π-π* transition.

Because of the low probability of the n-π* transition the excited stategenerated by such a transition is expected to be longer lived. Since thebalance between the rate constants for radiative and non-radiative decaydetermines fluorescence quantum yield a long lifetime, in general,allows a greater probability for radiationless decay to occur. Hence,n-π* transitions tend to be non-fluorescent.

Fluorescence Quantum Yield

Following absorption of a photon the SMMR is promoted to anelectronically excited state. The molecule undergoes vibrational changesand interactions with the solvent that result in relaxation to the statefrom which fluorescence occurs. If this state only undergoes spontaneousemission then the yield of fluorescence is high (φ_(F)=1). If the stateundergoes any other process, such as internal conversion or otherphotophysical change, then φ_(F)<1. The fluorescence quantum yield(φ_(F)) of an ideal SMMR is close to unity. Compounds with φ_(F) lessthan unity are likely to be less photostable and more photoreactive. Thefactors that are common in the design of an SMMR that result in a highquantum yield are:

-   -   1. Rigidity of the molecule. Constraining a molecule limits the        number of vibrational modes by which the excited state can be        deactivated. Binding of ethidium bromide to DNA for example,        increases the quantum yield of the molecule by 30 times.    -   2. Lack of heavy atom effect. Heavy atom substituents, such as        iodine or bromine, cause spin orbit coupling in a molecule and        facilitate intersystem crossing. The excited singlet state for        such a molecule can readily form a triplet state. Not only does        this process decrease the fluorescence quantum yield but it also        generates a potentially long-lived reactive state.    -   3. Bonding character. As mentioned above, n-π* transitions are,        in general, not only weakly absorbing but also non-fluorescent.        π-π* transitions have high molar absorption coefficients and are        fluorescent. For molecules that have both an electron donating        and withdrawing group attached to the π system, the transitions        that can occur are described as charge transfer. Typical        electron donating groups include amine and hydroxyl groups and        withdrawing groups include carbonyl and nitro groups. The        transitions are intense and if the transition is of the lowest        energy, they are also fluorescent.

From this discussion, it is apparent that the intensity or brightness offluorescence is determined by the product of the molar absorptioncoefficient and the quantum yield (εφ_(F)). If brightness issufficiently high, then even at low concentration, the SMMR absorbsexcitation light strongly and efficiently converts this energy tofluorescence. As a general rule then the minimum requirement for an SMMRis that ε>50,000 dm³ mol⁻¹ cm⁻¹ and φ_(F)>0.2; thus brightness orεφ_(F)>25,000 dm³ mol⁻¹ cm⁻¹.

Stokes Shift

The Stokes shift is the difference in energy between the lowest energyabsorption and the highest energy emission of a molecule. The advantagein having a large Stokes shift is that it is much easier, from apractical standpoint, to optically eliminate the influence of theexcitation light on the detected light, i.e., the bandpass filterrequirements are simplified.

Consideration of a Jablonski diagram (below) would imply that for an S₀to S₁ transition, involving only the lowest vibrational levels, theenergy of the fluorescence should be the same as the absorption. This isalmost never precisely the case. The main reasons are threefold:

-   -   1. Consideration of the bond order in the transition. In a π-π*        transition the electron distribution in the excited state        involves non-bonding orbitals. As a result the bond length and        the magnitude of the vibration in that bond increases. This        process results in a loss of energy and therefore the        fluorescent transition occurs from an excited state slightly        lower in energy that the state generated by the absorption.    -   2. The lower bond order in the excited state literally causes        the molecule to expand. This change in volume is measurable        using photoacoustic spectroscopy. For a molecule in solution to        expand requires work to be done in pushing back the solvent.        This work results in a loss of energy in the excited state and        an increase in the Stokes shift. The volume change increases as        the size of the π system increases.    -   3. The greater the degree of flexibility in the molecule the        more the number of vibrational modes available to the molecule.        For a complex molecule energy may be lost from parts of the        molecule not associated with the chromophore. Any mechanism that        causes the molecule to lose energy, including solvent and        intermolecular interactions, will lead to a decrease in the        energy of the observed fluorescence.

It is noted that factors that serve to increase the magnitude of theStokes shift also serve to lower the overall fluorescence quantum yield.A novel method to increase the separation of the excitation and emissionwavelengths for an SMMR is to covalently link two fluorescent probestogether. In practice the molecule that absorbs the light need not evenbe fluorescent provided its excited state lifetime is long enough totransfer energy to the acceptor molecule that fluoresces. This kind ofsystem increases the design flexibility of the SMMR. Proposed examplesto monitor pH include a molecule where both the donor and acceptor aresensitive to pH and because of electrostatic changes associated with pHchanges, the energy transfer process is also sensitive. ratiometricmeasurements of the donor and acceptor fluorescence show very largechanges as a function of pH.

An ideal SMMR has a Stokes shift of about 50 nm or more. Xanthene dyestypically have a Stokes shift of 5-15 nm but this value is alsodependent on the pKa of the molecule. As an example, BeXan type dyesexhibit Stokes shifts of about 40 nm for the acid form and 60 nm for thebasic forms of the dye.

Predicting Spectroscopic Properties from Molecular Structure

The prediction of spectroscopic properties such as absorption andemission spectra are very difficult. The absorption of a photon involvesthe promotion of an electron from a ground to excited state. There iscurrently no molecular calculation algorithm nor automated softwarepackage that can take into account the chemical microenvironment of amolecule. The position of the S₁←S_(o) transition is calculated byconsidering the energy of the molecule in its ground equilibriumconfiguration and the energy of the excited state in the same geometry,which is not an equilibrium conformation for the excited state. This isa consequence of the fact that an electronic transition occurs with nochange in the geometry of the molecule during the transition (theBorn-Oppenheimer approximation). The intensity of the absorption isdependent on the probability of the transition. In general π*←πtransitions are intense and have molar absorption coefficients of 105dm³ mol⁻¹ cm⁻¹ or greater. High probability is favored by strong overlapbetween the ground and excited state orbitals.

Affinity to Target Site

Designing SMMR compounds to have an affinity for specified cellularlocations, membranes, or structures helps reduce noise in an SMMRmeasurement. When the SMMR is targeted to specific cell locations, boththe immediate chemical microenvironment of the SMMR molecule as well asits location for optical measurement can be more closely controlled.SMMRs can be designed to have high affinity for membranes, organelles,charged structures including specific membrane layers, biopolymers,protein or enzyme binding sites, and regions of the cell that areparticularly hydrophobic or hydrophilic. Absolute specificity may beconferred on an SMMR by binding it to a variety of other membranespecific binding substituents including the use of antibodies.

Examples of an SMMR structure designed to confer target affinity aregiven here:

Membrane affinity: Amphipathic molecules have a high affinity formembranes. Hydrophilic molecules become amphipathic when an alkyl chainis linked to the structure. This linkage is not necessarily covalent innature. Electrostatic complexes of cationic detergents and methylviologen, for example, are stable and bind strongly to membranes. Inbinding to a membrane, the alkyl chain is solubilized in the hydrophobiccore of the membrane and the hydrophilic head group is located at thesurface of the membrane. This type of molecule is particularly effectiveat monitoring changes at the interface between the bulk phase and themembrane that include membrane potential and pH changes, either of whichmay be used to track glucose concentration at the cell.

Enzyme binding site affinity: SMMR affinity for an enzyme-binding sitemay be conferred by covalently linking a model enzyme substrate orenzyme cofactor to the SMMR, e.g., as disclosed in pending U.S.Application No. 60/438,837, entitled “Method for Non-invasive, in vivomonitoring of Blood Glucose Levels,” filed Jan. 9, 2003, that discussesthe binding of an SMMR to the FAD cofactor of glucose oxidase, theentire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Skin Uptake

One of the most important functions of skin is to protect the essentialtissues of the body from the outside environment. The layer of skin thatforms the physical barrier for the body, preventing moisture loss,infection and regulating temperature is the stratum corneum. This celllayer is both hydrophobic as well as acidic, and thus presents a numberof problems to transdermal drug delivery. The problem is exacerbated inSMMR technology, since the goal of delivering an SMMR to the epidermisis to have the dye pass through the stratum corneum but to localize inthe living epidermal layer. The factors that affect skin uptake includemolecular size, hydrophobicity and volatility.

The ideal characteristics of an SMMR, useful to penetrate the stratumcorneum, include a low molecular weight (less than 600 g mol⁻¹), apartition coefficient of about 10, yielding good solubility in lipid andwater phases and a low melting point (see for example, “Novel mechanismsand devices to enable successful transdermal drug delivery,” B. W.Barry. Eur. J. Pharm. Sci. (2001) 14 101-114). A low melting pointcorrelates with high solubility since there is little interactionbetween the molecules.

For an SMMR that will eventually localize in the cytoplasm or theinterstitial fluid, the molecule must have good water solubility.However, a hydrophilic molecule will have difficulty in passing thehydrophobic environment of the stratum corneum. These opposingproperties of the molecule imply that the design of the molecule has tobe altered to accommodate both environments, that the molecule isamphipathic or that the delivery system can accommodate both polar andnon-polar molecules. Delivery systems are customized for individual SMMRproperties, and the preparation/formulation of such delivery systems arewithin the skill of one of ordinary skill in the art, taken with thedisclosure herein. It is well known that mixed solvent systems usingmixed organic solvents for the organic phase have a significantlygreater range of properties. Other solvent systems include the use ofsurface-active agents to expand the range of properties of the vehicle.

Cellular Uptake

To a certain extent the factors that affect uptake in the skin are thesame as those that affect cellular uptake. Overall, there has to be abalance between movement of the SMMR into the stratum corneum, diffusioninto the epidermis, and then the competing processes of SMMR uptake bythe epidermal cells and loss of the dye into the dermis. All of theseprocesses may be considered to be reversible. The most important factorsthat facilitate cellular uptake of a small molecule include thepartition coefficient (P), and the molecular size and the diffusioncoefficient in the lipid matrix (D). Diffusion across a biologicalmembrane is dependent on three factors: the diffusion of the SMMR fromthe aqueous phase to the lipid phase, diffusion within the lipid phaseand diffusion from the lipid phase back into an aqueous phase. For amolecule whose flux across the membrane is proportional to theconcentration gradient the proportionality constant is called thepermeability coefficient (Cp) and it is directly dependent on the threefactors above. The permeability coefficient is given by the expressionin equation (5). $\begin{matrix}{C_{p} = \frac{DP}{x}} & ( {{EQ}.\quad 5} )\end{matrix}$

Where x is the distance across the membrane, or more accurately thedistance across the concentration gradient, the other terms are asdefined above. For most SMMRs the permeability is directly proportionalto the partition coefficient although this relationship does not holdfor very small molecules.

The pK_(a) is important, since this will determine the overall charge ofthe molecule at a particular pH and hence the partition coefficient. Formany pH indicating xanthene compounds there are two pK_(a) values ofimportance. As an example, fluorescein

will be considered. The pKa of fluorescein is 6.4. Below this pH, thehydroxyl group drawn at position 3 is protonated. In practice, theoxygen atoms at positions 3 and 6 are equivalent, and above pH 6.4 thexanthene ring is negatively charged with electron density shared betweenthese two positions. The carboxylic acid at the 2′ position isunprotonated until the pH drops to about pH 4.2. Below a pH of 2.2, thecarboxylic acid ring closes at position 9, there is a hydrogen shiftonto the carbonyl at position 6 and the quinoid structure no longerexists. Under these conditions the compound is colorless. The relevanceof this parameter to drug delivery in the skin is that this type ofcompound displays many of the characteristics that facilitate SMMRdelivery.

SMMRs designed with acidic functionality have greater potential for skinand cellular uptake. In skin, the stratum corneum is acidic and thesurface of cell membranes is also acidic. Therefore the use of SMMRswith acidic substitutions result in a significant fraction of compoundmolecules being uncharged at pH 5 (close to the values reported in thestratum corneum and at the cell surface). These molecules are thereforemore hydrophobic, may cross the barrier and once inside the cell, at ˜pH7 become deprotonated again. Suitable groups include carboxylic acids(pKa ˜4-5) and aromatic thiols (pKa ˜8). Both of these groups areelectrostatically neutral when protonated.

Cellular uptake and retention may be improved by the use ofpolyoxyethylene chains or polylysine chains. The purpose of thesesubstitutions are to give the SMMRs both hydrophobic and hydrophilicproperties. The molecule behaves as a cross-linked micelle changing itsconformation and degree of order depending on its environment. Thechromophore itself is hydrophilic but it can be solubilized in non-polarenvironments by the long alkyl chain. In a hydrophobic environment, thechain wraps around the molecule and, if a poly-oxaethylene is used thechain is configured to present the oxygen atoms of the chain towards theinterior of the complex. In a hydrophilic environment, the chain unwrapsand the SMMR is exposed.

SMMR species connected by flexible saturated chains behave as individualchromophores when located in environments where the monomer is soluble.Under conditions where the monomer is not soluble, the dimer will foldto present the smallest volume of the molecule to the environment. Thisapproach has previously been used to deliver photodynamic therapeutic(PDT) agents to tissues. The folded dimer, which is oftennon-fluorescent, may cross the cell membrane and unfold when it reachesits cytoplasm related target. The unfolded dimer is againphotochemically active.

An example of a dimeric BeXan type molecule is shown below:

It is readily synthesized from the chloromethyl derivative of themonomer reacting with a dithioalkane. Thioethers are known to bebiologically stable molecules (see, e.g., Effect of linker variation onthe stability, potency, and efficacy of carcinoma-reactiveBR64-doxorubicin immunoconjugates. P. A. Trail, D. Willner, J. Knipe, A.J. Henderson, S. J. Lasch, M. E. Zoeckler, M. D. TrailSmith, T. W.Doyle, H. D. King, A. M. Casazza, G. R. Braslawsky, J. Brown, S. J.Hofstead, R. S. Greenfield, R. A. Firestone, K. Mosure, K. F. Kadow, M.B. Yang, K. E. Hellstrom and I. Hellstrom. Cancer Research, (1997) 57(1)100-105; and Enhancing selectivity, stability, and bioavailability ofpeptidomimetic estrogen receptor modulators F. Spatola, A. K. Galande,F. M. Brunel, K. S. Bramlett, and T. P. Burris, Presented at the 18^(th)American Peptide Symposium, Jul. 19-23, 2003, Boston, Mass.).

Cellular Retention

The compounds used as SMMRs must be retained inside the cell so thatrepeated applications are not necessary for an SMMR monitoring device tofunction over extended periods from 1 hour to 30 days. Many of the samefactors that determine how well an SMMR will cross the membrane alsodetermine whether the compound will leak out of the cell. The principalfactors that influence compound retention include: charge, size,polarity, pKa, and the presence of groups that interact with cellularcomponents. Assuming that the principal mechanism for leakage out of thecell is diffusion across the membrane, the SMMR compound should belarge, hydrophilic and preferably negatively charged to prevent leakage.

Molecules with molecular weights of greater than 600 g mol⁻¹ will beretained to a much higher degree than smaller molecules. Negativelycharged species are electrostatically repelled from cell membranes. Cellmembranes have a high pH gradient near the surface. Negatively chargedsurfaces attract cationic species, which include the highly mobilehydrogen ion, in a layer called the Stern layer. This layer, locatednear the membrane surface, may be as much as two pH units lower than thephase of the bulk membrane. Therefore, to maintain charge in thevicinity of a membrane, it is important that at least some of theprotonatable groups on the molecule have pKa values less than pH 5.

Quantitatively, leakage from the cell may be measured by monitoring thefluorescence of the interstitial fluid or medium in which the cells arebathed. The leakage is dependent on the concentration gradient andtherefore leakage will be higher in a cell culture type measurement thanin a skin type system. For example, if a 35 mm diameter dish confluentwith keratinocytes and bathed with 1 ml of medium is compared to thesame number of cells stacked as the cells in the epidermis, then theapparent leakage rate would be at least 30 times higher in the cellculture system. The leakage rate may ultimately be compared to thetarget site affinity (T.S.A.) parameter (equation 3): $\begin{matrix}{{T.S.A.} = \frac{{SMMR}_{active}}{{SMMR}_{delivered}}} & ( {{EQ}.\quad 3} )\end{matrix}$

The T.S.A. value is related not only to the leakage rate but also to therate at which the SMMR is metabolized or photobleached within the cell.These are the same parameters that would have prevented the compoundentering the cell initially. Therefore, ideally the SMMR should beconverted to this type of molecule after it has entered the cell. Thisconversion has been accomplished in a number of ways.

Esterification of an SMMR leads to a hydrophobic molecule that can crossthe cell membrane. Once inside the cell, the ester is cleaved off byesterase enzymes, generating a charged molecule that cannot readily passback out of the cell across the membrane. Reduced compounds such asdihydrorhadamines are hydrophobic and may be oxidized inside the cell toform the fluorescent, hydrophilic form of the compound. Other methodsthat have been used include substitution of a chloromethyl group thatinteracts with thiol groups leading to conjugation with proteins orhydrophilic moieties preventing leakage from the cell.

The affinity of the SMMR to the target tissue is also given as theTarget Site Affinity (T.S.A.). The T.S.A. indicates the percent of SMMRthat remains active at the target site after physical delivery to thesite. It is reported as a time dependent phenomenon relative to 1 hour,24 hours, and 72 hours. The T.S.A. for any time period is given inequation (3) as the ratio of moles of SMMR delivered to moles of SMMRactive at the delivery site.

Metabolic Monitoring (Indirect Glucose Measurement)

SMMR technology is designed to specifically target metabolic pathways.For SMMRs designed to track glucose these pathways have a directrelationship with the in vivo glucose concentration. For the most partbiological pathways do not stand in isolation from other processes thatoccur in the body. It is therefore possible to improve the sensitivityof monitoring by targeting more than one pathway at the same time. Forexample, it is useful to know the percentage of metabolism that occursby oxidative phosphorylation, and the fraction that occurs by anaerobicmetabolism. This knowledge allows different cell types or cells underdifferent conditions to be compared. Increasing the number of pathwaysmonitored increases the specificity of the measurements, the dynamicrange (since measurements can be made under a wider array of conditions)and decreases the influence of competing processes. As an example of theuse of SMMR technology to monitor glucose concentration, the pathwaysthat would be targeted are shown in FIG. 1. The technique to monitoreach pathway is given.

SMMR technology is able to monitor glucose transport through the use ofmembrane bound reporters that respond to the activity of the glucosetransporter molecule (GluT). It has previously been shown that thekinetics of GluT may be monitored from the autofluorescence oftryptophan residues in the protein. SMMR technology can monitor the GluTprotein either by energy transfer from tryptophan to the dye, or bymonitoring membrane dynamics in the vicinity of the GluT protein.

Under conditions where there is excess glucose, cells can convertglucose to glycogen. Glycogen is stored within the cytoplasm of cells assmall granules. The size of these granules is fairly uniform and is onthe order of tens of nanometers in diameter. As the amount of glycogenstored increases the number of granules increases not the size of thegranules. Glycogen synthesis is measured in tissue biopsies using theabsorption of the glycogen:iodine complex at 460 mm. Thus, this aspectof the glucose metabolism pathway is measurable using optical means.

In tissue that undergoes primarily anaerobic metabolism, the products ofthe glycolysis reaction pathway are lactate and adenosine triphosphate(ATP). ATP is synthesized from ADP, the diphosphate analog, andinorganic phosphate. Lactate is generated as a waste product of thepathway. The lactate concentration within the cell is dependent onlactate transport out of the cell and the rate of glycolysis. Theextracellular lactate concentration is dependent on lactate transportand diffusion of lactate into the blood stream. Published work hascorrelated the production of lactate with intracellular pH. Both intraand extracellular pH is measured using SMMR technology with ratiometricmonitoring. To monitor the pH values simultaneously, dyes with differentspectroscopic properties are used. To use SMMRs with overlapping spectrarequires the SMMRs to be applied to different regions of the skin andthen repetitive measurements to be made at each site.

Photostability

The photostability of a fluorophore is a function of the magnitude ofthe quantum yield. If the excited state of the SMMR undergoes anyprocess other than radiative or decay via a vibrational cascade thepossibility for a photochemical reaction to take place and an attendantloss of photostability. The loss of fluorescence is the result of aphotochemical reaction, often involving the excited state of thecompound, and the generation of a photoproduct. This process isgenerally called photobleaching, which means literally the loss ofcolor. Photobleaching is often an oxidation process and the degree ofphotobleaching may be proportional to the number of excited statesgenerated. Therefore, photobleaching can be minimized by using lowintensity excitation light, a low oxygen concentration and by increasingantioxidant concentrations.

Excited State Chemistry

The processes that can lead to a photochemical reaction include: energytransfer from the excited singlet state (S₁), electron transfer from S₁energy transfer from the excited triplet state (T₁), electron transferfrom T₁ formation and subsequent reaction of singlet oxygen(O₂(¹Δ_(g))). These reactions are summarized in the following Figure (2)where:

SMMR+hv represents the absorption of a photon

¹SMMR* is the first excited singlet state

³SMMR* is the first excited triplet state

S represents some biological substrate

+* and *− represent a semioxidized and semireduced species respectively

O₂(¹Δ_(g)) is singlet oxygen

i.s.c is intersystem crossing.

The k terms in the diagram are the rate constants for each process. Eltand Ent refer to electron transfer and energy transfer respectively. Foran SMMR to have a high quantum yield the rate constant for fluorescencehas to compete with all of these processes.

Turnover

The turnover of the SMMR is related to a number of factors including:photostability, localization, metabolic activity involving reaction withthe SMMR, leakage out of cells, uptake into the blood stream, migrationinto the stratum corneum and loss to the environment. Some SMMR turnoveris an advantage since the process reduces the potential for aphotobleached compound or compounds to migrate into a non-active regionof the tissue. Turnover due to photochemical effects has been discussedearlier.

SMMR Reporting Activity

The activity of an SMMR is dependent on its response to the metabolicpathway to which it is targeted as well as its ability to reach the siteof that pathway. The chemical properties of the compound that determineits potency include pKa, excited state energy levels, φ_(F), ε,octanol:water partition coefficient, and the selectivity of the SMMR forthe targeted pathway.

The design of a suitable SMMR involves the correlation of the chemicalproperties of the SMMR with the biological reporting activity of thecompound. To be able to do this it is critical that the reportingactivity of the compound be quantified so that different compounds canbe compared and a correlation derived.

There are several parameters that can be determined to measure theefficacy of an SMMR. These parameters include: minimum concentrationthat can be detected using fluorescence, smallest change in analyteconcentration that results in a measurable spectroscopic change, anddynamic range in the SMMR response.

In a series of papers published in the 1960's, Hansch and co-workersdescribed how certain aspects of a drug structure could be related toits activity. (Comparison of parameters currently used in the study ofstructure-activity relationships. A. Leo, C. Hansch and C. Church. J.Med. Chem. (1969) 12(5) 766-771; Homolytic constants in the correlationof chloramphenicol structure with activity. C. Hansch, E. Kutter and A.Leo. J. Med. Chem. (1969) 12(5) 746-749; Passive permeation of organiccompounds through biological tissue: a non-steady-state theory. J. T.Penniston, L. Beckett, D. L. Bentley and C. Hansch. Mol. Pharmacol.(1969) 5(4) 333-341; The linear free-energy relationship betweenpartition coefficients and the binding and conformational perturbationof macromolecules by small organic compounds. F. Helmer, K. Kiehs, andC. Hansch. Biochemistry. 1968 7(8) 2858-2863; Correlation of ratios ofdrug metabolism by microsomal subfractions with partition coefficients.E. J. Lien and C. Hansch. J. Pharm. Sci. (1968) 57(6) 1027-1028.) Inparticular, the hydrophobicity of a molecule described how it couldpartition between tissue and bodily fluid.

A similar approach for SMMR design may be used to provide asemi-empirical approach to SMMR design. Two examples are given, one foran SMMR that monitors a biological pathway, such as glycolysis, via achange in intracellular pH; and one for an SMMR that is used to monitora biological pathway, such as glycolysis, via the overall reductionpotential of the cell through energy transfer.

SMMR Reporting Glycolysis Via a Change in Intracellular pH

Using an analogous rationale to that described by Hansch, an empiricalequation (4) that would allow the prediction of the smallestconcentration of an SMMR that could be detected from its fluorescencefollowing application to the skin is provided as follows.$\begin{matrix}{{\log( \frac{1}{\lbrack C\rbrack} )} = {{k_{1}\log\quad A\quad\phi_{F}} + {k_{2}\log\quad P} - {k_{3}( {\log\quad P} )}^{2} + {k_{4}{pK}_{a}} + k_{5}}} & ( {{EQ}.\quad 4} )\end{matrix}$Where:

-   -   C is the smallest concentration that is detectable in the skin,    -   A is the absorbance of the solution,    -   φ_(F) is the quantum yield of the compound,    -   P is the octanol water coefficient,    -   pK_(a) is the pKa of the compound,    -   the constants k₁ through k₅ are empirically determined constants        obtained through linear regression.

The determination of the unknown parameters in this equation requiresthat at least five times the number of observations be made, as thereare terms in the equation. In the example given here at leasttwenty-five observations would have to be made.

The term k₁ log Aφ_(F) describes the probability of the SMMR absorbing aphoton and reemitting it as fluorescence. The higher the absorbance andthe quantum yield, the more likely is the absorption of a photon and thegeneration of fluorescence. The term k₂ log P-k₃(log P)² describes thepartition between hydrophobic and hydrophilic phases within an organism.P is the octanol water partition coefficient and has been shown todescribe the distribution of a solute between the bulk aqueous phase andthe hydrophobic phase of a lipid bilayer such as a cell membrane. Theoptimum value of P is some intermediate value. Hydrophilic moleculesremain in the bulk phase while hydrophobic molecules are not solubilizedand therefore are not carried to the cell membrane.

The pK_(a) is included in this equation because it is related to thepartition coefficient of the SMMR. Protonation of basic groups anddeprotonation of acidic groups lead to an increase of charge in themolecule and hence increased hydrophilicity. Equation (5) is arelatively simple equation that merely describes the factors thatcontrol the uptake of a molecule into a cell membrane. For an SMMR to beeffective, the molecule must be retained in the cell or tissue. To acertain extent, retention is described by the same factors that describeuptake of the compound. An equation that describes the response of anSMMR to a change in pH caused by the activity of a metabolic pathway isgiven here: $\begin{matrix}{{\log\quad R} = {{k_{w}{\log( \frac{A^{DH}\phi_{F}^{DH}}{A^{D}\phi_{F}^{D}} )}} + {k_{x}{pK}_{a}} + {k_{y}\log\quad P} + k_{z}}} & ( {{EQ}.\quad 5} )\end{matrix}$Where:

-   -   R is the difference in the fluorescence under the extreme        conditions of the metabolic pathway, maximum and minimum        activity.    -   The superscript DH and D refer to the protonated and        deprotonated forms of the compound respectively.

All other terms are as in equation (1) and the constants k_(w) throughk_(z) are determined empirically as before. Essentially the first twoterms in this equation form the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation (DieBerechnung der Wasserstoffzahl des Blutes auf der freien und gebundenenKohlensaure desselben, und die Sauerstoffbindung des Blutes als Funktionder Wasserstoffzahl. K. A. Hasselbalch. Biochem. Z. (1916) 78, 112-144).The log P term appears because the SMMR must localize in a similarregion of the cell as the location of the biochemical pathway.

Further discussion of the design concept, and compounds and relatedconstructs are described in the following examples.

EXAMPLE 1

Using pH to Track D-Glucose Concentration in Living Cells

For human keratinocytes, the carefully measured intracellular pH (as ameasure of lactate production) is directly proportional to theconcentration of D-glucose entering the cell. Thus, a decrease ofintracellular pH is indicative of an increase in glucose concentration.The lactate formation within the cell is in direct proportion to thequantity of glycolysis occurring within the cell, and this glycolysis is‘fueled’ by D-glucose and other simple sugars, such as fructose andgalactose. This example demonstrates the protocol for precise pHmeasurement within viable cells, which is directly related to theD-glucose concentration within viable human keratinocytes.

A-431 cells obtained from ATCC (#CRL-1555) are seeded at 5×10⁵ cells in35 mm culture dishes (Falcon #353801) containing a #2 25 mm cover glass(VWR#48382-085). Cells are incubated in 2 mL Dulbecco's Modified Eagle'sMedium at 100 mg/dL D-glucose (Gibco #11966-025) at 90% and Fetal BovineSerum (Gibco#26140-087) at 10%. Cells are allowed to reach nearconfluence in 6% CO₂ 37° C. incubator, over a period of 3 to 5 days.

The glass cover slip with cells is dipped and rinsed in Dulbecco'sPhosphate-Buffered Saline (D-PBS) (Invitrogen, Catalog #14040) or pH 7.2HEPES buffer with composition (mM): NaCl 150, KCl 4.5, MgCl₂ 1, CaCl₂1.8. The cover slip is then mounted slip on a Sykes-Moore Chamber(#1943-11111, Bellco Glass, Vineland, N.J.) to form a study chamber. Thechamber is always sat on a hot plate at 36.5±0.5° C. A-431 cells arewashed three times with the buffer. After wash, 1 ml buffer solutionwith 1 mM (18 mg/dL) D-glucose is added into the chamber. The backgroundspectrum of A431 cells in buffer solution is then measured by in-housedeveloped clinical development breadboard (CBB).

A ratiometric pH reporting dye is used as the in vitro intracellular pHindicator. 1 mM stock of the ratiometric pH reporting dye in DMSO isprepared and stored under −20° C. Cells are loaded in the presence of0.4˜2 μM of the dye in HEPES buffers (pH should be calibrated to 7.22 at35° C.), plus 1 mM D-glucose under 36˜37° C. for 1 hour. During thetime, the cell chamber is shaken gently three times for homogenousloading. The cell is then washed four times with same buffer solution.Washing solution should be kept in the cell chamber for 3 minutes andthen decanted. After washing, 1 ml buffer solution with 1 mM D-glucoseis added into the cell chamber.

Two cell chambers are required for a complete study. One cell line isfor pH change from neutral to acidic and the other is for the change tobasic. About 12 minutes after dye loading, 5 spectra of cell chamber 1are measured on the CBB as intracellular pH measurements. The wholesolution is next replaced by 1 ml buffer solution with 15 μM nigericin(15 μL of 10 mM nigericin), and 5 spectra of pH 7.22 are measured 3 to 5minutes later. For pH changes from neutral to pH 6, 10 μL pH 1.18 HEPESbuffer is added continuously into 1 mL solution contains cells andnigericin. Each addition provides about 0.2 pH unit decrease. Fivespectra at different pH are measured about 3 to 5 minutes after adding10 μL pH 1.2 HEPES buffer. The procedure is repeated about 5 times. Formeasurements at pH 5, 2.5 uL 1 M HCl in distilled water is added intothe chamber.

For the pH measurement from neutral to basic, the same procedure as usedfor intracellular pH and pH 7.22 are measured on cell chamber 2. For pHchanges from neutral to pH 8.2, 10 μL pH 12.3 HEPES buffer is addedcontinuously into 1 mL solution containing cells and nigericin. Eachaddition provides an increase of approximately 0.2 pH unit. Five spectraat different pH are measured about 3˜5 minutes after adding 10 μL pH12.3 HEPES buffer. The procedure is repeated about 4 times. For pH 9measurements, 5 uL 1 M NaOH in DW is added in the chamber. The exact pHof 1 ml 7.22 HEPES buffer by adding certain amount of pH 1.2 or pH12.3buffer should be calibrated by pH meter.

The basic assumption for the Henderson-Hasselbalch model to apply is:the fluorescence intensity of each form (protonated and deprotonated) ofthe dye is linearly proportional to that form's concentrations. Theapplication of the modified model, the quantum yield and photobleachingof two forms should not be affected differently by environmentaleffects.The governing equation for this model is $\begin{matrix}{{pH} = {{pK}_{a} - {\log\lbrack {\frac{r - r_{B}}{r_{A} - r} \times \frac{F_{\lambda_{2}}^{B}}{F_{\lambda_{2}}^{A}}} \rbrack}}} & ( {{EQ}.\quad 6} )\end{matrix}$where r is the ratio of fluorescence intensity at λ₁ to that at λ₂,r_(A) is the ratio for the fluorescence of the protonated form, r_(B) isthe ratio for the deprotonated form, and F_(λ2) ^(A,B) is thefluorescence intensity of the protonated and deprotonated forms,respectively, at λ₂. The pK_(a) in Equation 1 is true pK and it can beexpressed as $\begin{matrix}{{pK}_{a} = {{pK}_{app} + {\log\lbrack \frac{F_{\lambda_{2}}^{B}}{F_{\lambda_{2}}^{A}} \rbrack}}} & ( {{EQ}.\quad 7} )\end{matrix}$where pK_(app) is the apparent pK at the ratio of λ₁ over λ₂.

The ratiometric pH reporting dye has a pale color in dimethyl sulfoxide(DMSO). Aqueous solution of the ratiometric pH reporting dye willactually exhibit different visible colors at pH 8 to 9. The absorptionspectra of the ratiometric pH reporting dye (5 μM in 0.1 M phosphatebuffer) are measured on an HP 8453 UV/Vis spectrometer, an example ofwhich is shown in FIG. 3. Fluorescence emission spectra excited at 532nm were measured on a Fluorolog® spectrometer (Jobin Yvon Inc., 3880Park Avenue, Edison, N.J. 08820-3012 USA) and data are shown in FIG. 4.Samples were prepared from a series of combinations of 0.1 M monobasicsodium phosphate and 0.1 M dibasic sodium phosphate. Both sodiumphosphate solutions contain the ratiometric pH reporting dye at 5 μM.

For the SMMR dynamic study, 12 minutes after SMMR loading, five spectraof one cell line are measured at 1 spec/min. Preheated (in water bath)10 μL 10 g/dL D-glucose or same volume of control solution is added tothe chamber. Twenty five spectra are measured after solution adding. Thefirst 10 are at 30-second intervals, and then change to 1 minute. A setof cell lines (4 to 6) is followed above procedure by adding D-glucoseand control solution.

For the statistical study, 12 minutes after dye loading, with a 30second gap, half of total (˜8) cell lines are added with 10 μLD-glucose, and another half with 10 μL control solution. Several roundsof measurements of all cell lines are carried out at appropriateintervals. The difference between adding D-glucose and control solution(L-glucose or buffer) will be studied statistically. The cell viabilityis assessed and recorded using fluorescence light microscopy.

EXAMPLE 2

Using External, In Vivo pH Measurement to Track Blood Glucose or BloodLactate

The rationale for measuring blood glucose levels or blood lactate levelsusing external, in vivo optical measurements of SMMR activity withinskin is demonstrated. Fluorescence measurements in vivo of SMMR placedwithin the skin during glucose clamp studies were designed to improvethe observation of the correlation between glucose levels and measuredpH changes.

After improvements of fluorescence measurements, additional clampstudies with better control over anesthesia were done to demonstrate theconsistency and reliability for the correlation between glucose levelsin blood and the reporter dye fluorescence ratio.

This description demonstrates the results of additional glucose clampstudies during which fluorescence signals were measured in vivo afterdye injections using low-cost components comprising a fluorescencesensing device.

An example ratiometric pH reporting dye was prepared as described bydiluting a 1 mM stock aliquot (frozen at −20° C. in DMSO). The finalconcentration typically used for placement into the skin was 20 μM inPBS. The SMMR was delivered by shallow injection (or topical passivediffusion) into hairless rats using 100 μL of solution. Multi-injectionsat the same location were repeated 4 times at intervals of 1 hour.Clamps were started on the next day (15-20 hours after last injection)after the preliminary pre-heating of the rat, i.e., rat had laid onheated stage about 20 minutes before measurements. During bottommeasurement of the rat the average temperature of the stage was about36.5° C., and the standard deviation of the stage temperature during asingle experiment did not exceed 0.5° C.

During this study the influence of anesthesia was minimized. Results ofin vivo measurements are shown as in FIGS. 5-8.

Changes of intensity were not substantial during the experiments.Anesthesia (0.19 cc of ketamine) was administered by injection to eachrat 75 minutes before measurements. Relative changes in time ofparameter U can be defined as 100 [U(t)−U(0)]/U(0), where t is time (inminutes), and 0 denotes time at the beginning of measurements. As notedfrom FIG. 1 d, observed relative changes for glucose and lactate aresubstantially greater than the corresponding changes of the fluorescenceratio. To provide a more meaningful visual comparison between glucose,lactate and fluorescence ratio changes, a normalization expression ofthe independent data are used as: (U−U_(min)/U_(max)−U_(min)), whichrefers to the difference between given value of ratio, lactate, orglucose and it minimum value divided by the difference between itsmaximum value and its minimum value. FIG. 9 shows the normalized andrelative changes for the independent data sets over time: fluorescenceratio, lactate, and glucose.

The experimental data allows estimating the sensitivity coefficients ofratio change to glucose change and lactate change as given in equation(8).ΔR=αΔG+βΔL  (EQ. 8)Noting that the expression, ΔR/ΔG=5×10⁻⁴ dL/mg and ΔR/ΔL=2×10⁻² dL/mM,where: L has units mM/dL and G has units mg/dL.

Previous clamps with anesthesia (0.1 cc of ketamine) during measurementprovided estimates of the average kinetic changes in fluorescence ratio,which are shown in FIG. 10.

Taking into account the influence of three major factors, namely:anesthesia, lactate and glucose it is possible to compare experimentallyobserved changes during clamp studies with calculated values using anexpression such as equation (9):ΔR=αΔG+βΔL+ΔR _(a)(t−t _(a))A  (EQ. 9)

Where t_(a) is the moment of time when anesthesia was administered;ΔR_(a)(t−t_(a)) is the experimentally defined ratio changes due toanesthesia with 0.1 cc of ketamine; and A is amount of ketamine (in 0.1cc units).

FIGS. 11 a-c show these results. From these results, the positivecorrelation between the fluorescence SMMR ratio measurements and changesin glucose and lactate are demonstrated.

SMMR Operating Through Energy Transfer

Assuming that SMMRs can be delivered to the sites at which energytransfer takes place (as described by equation (4) above, then a newexpression can be derived for the efficiency of an SMMR monitoring theoverall reduction potential of the cell by energy transfer, i.e.,¹ NAD(P)H*+SMMR→NAD(P)H+ ¹ SMMR*

In this process, the excited state of the reduced nicotinamide interactswith the SMMR to generate the excited state. The φ_(F) of NAD(P)H isless than 0.1. If an SMMR is chosen with a quantum yield close to unity,then the yield of fluorescence is increased by at least one order ofmagnitude, provided the energy transfer process is efficient, equation(10). $\begin{matrix}{{\log\quad F} = {{k_{a}\log\frac{k_{T}}{( {\tau_{D}^{- 1} + k_{T}} )}} + {k_{b}\log\quad P} + k_{c}}} & ( {{EQ}.\quad 10} )\end{matrix}$Where:

-   -   F is the fluorescence response to the change in intracellular        reduction potential,    -   k_(T) is the rate of energy transfer,    -   τ_(D) ⁻¹ is the reciprocal of the fluorescence lifetime,    -   P is the partition coefficient,    -   and k_(a), k_(b) and k_(c) are the determined empirical        constants as described previously.

The rate constant of energy transfer is given by the expression inequation (11). $\begin{matrix}{k_{T} = {( \frac{\phi_{F}\kappa^{2}}{\tau\quad r^{6}{Cn}^{4}} ){J(\lambda)}}} & ( {{EQ}.\quad 11} )\end{matrix}$Where:

-   -   κ is known as the orientation factor,    -   τ is the fluorescence lifetime of the donor,    -   φ_(F) is the fluorescence quantum yield of the donor,    -   C is a collection of constants,    -   J(λ) is known as the overlap integral,    -   and n is the refractive index of the medium.

The orientation factor describes how the transition dipoles of the donorand acceptor molecules align. For two molecules moving randomly insolution, the value of κ² is about 0.66, and for two dipolesperpendicular to each other the value is 0.

The term k_(T)/(τ_(D) ⁻¹+k_(T)) in equation (6) is the efficiency ofenergy transfer. In words, it is the number of energy transfer events asa fraction of all decay events. The energy transfer rate constant mustbe significantly greater than the sum of all the rate constantsattributed to all other decay routes for the energy transfer to beefficient.

The log P (or log P_(o/w)) value reflects the relative solubility of anydrug in octanol (representing the lipid bilayer of a cell membrane) andwater (the matrix fluid within the cell and in blood).

EXAMPLE 3

Using NADH Fluorescence to Track D-Glucose Concentration in Living Cells

A set of demonstration experiments for living cells has shown theexpected trend in NADH signals with respect to a change in glucoseconcentration, as shown in FIG. 12 (glucose from 0 to 400 mg/dL) andFIG. 13 (glucose from 0 to 66 mg/dL). All glucose concentrations above˜5 mg/dL were well above the saturation limit as can be seen by the lackof any further change in signals.

A second set of demonstration experiments was designed to determine thesaturation limit by varying glucose concentration from 0 to 5 mg/dL andback to zero. The saturation point is expected to have a value between0.0 and 2 mg/dL.) As shown in FIG. 14 an approximate linear increase inNADH fluorescence is observed with glucose concentration from 0 to 5mg/dL (0.28 mM). FIG. 15 is a plot of a background subtracted NADHsignal where the background changed linearly as determined from thefirst zero glucose signal and the last (near) zero glucose signal(sequence #11). FIG. 16 shows the NADH signal trend versus concentrationfor living cells.

EXAMPLE 4

Using Membrane Potential to Track D-Glucose Concentration in LivingCells

A set of demonstration experiments showed the expected trend in Rh123fluorescence quenching. The fluorescence quenching is an indication ofmembrane potential changes within living cells with respect to anincrease in glucose concentration, as shown in FIG. 17 (glucose from 0to 400 mg/dL) and FIG. 18 (glucose from 0 to 66 mg/dL).

A second set of demonstration experiments was designed to determine thesaturation limit for membrane potential-based glucose analysis byvarying glucose 0 to 5 mg/dL and back to zero. The saturation pointvalue was expected to be between 0.0 and 2 mg/dL. As shown in FIG. 19 anapproximate linear decrease in Rh123 fluorescence with increasingglucose levels was observed from 0 to 5 mg/dL (0.28 mM).

SMMR Fluorophore-Reporter for Glucose and Diol Measurement

For this application of direct glucose sensing SMMRs, the objective isto detect and quantify glucose via a small molecule fluorescent reporterwhose photophysical properties are modulated by binding with D-glucoseor other simple sugars or diol molecules. Such SMMRs report glucoseusing a reversible binding process and the molecular structure-activityconsists of three mechanistic parts.

-   -   1) A fluorophore with suitable photochemical characteristics;    -   2) A chemical affinity group that binds reversibly with glucose        and similar molecular species (e.g., a boronic acid-containing        component);    -   3) Additional substructural features to favor specificity for        glucose over fructose, galactose, and other biologically active        saccharides, which may be physiologically present near target        cells (i.e., near the intercellular or interstitial spaces of        the viable epidermis).

Boronic acids are frequently used in saccharide reporter molecules toprovide affinity.

Boronic acids undergo reversible binding with glucose or another sugaror diol-containing molecule to form a boronate ester with high affinity.(Scheme 3):

In the literature, signal transduction of the boronic acid+sugar-bindingphenomenon has been accomplished in two ways:

-   -   1) Modulation of Photoinduced Electron Transfer (PET) quenching,        and    -   2) Modulation of Internal Charge Transfer (ICT).

The PET mechanism of signal transduction is illustrated schematically inScheme 4, in the case of an anthracene fluorophore [See for example, T.D. James, K. R. A. Samankumara Sandanayake, R. Iguchi, and S. Shinkai,“Novel Saccharide-Photoinduced Electron Transfer Sensors Based on theInteraction of Boronic Acid and Amine”, J. Amer. Chem. Soc., 117, 8982(1995)]. In this example, the fluorophore-boronic acid is present in apH dependent equilibrium, represented by species (1) and (3). For thisexample, as pH is increased, the fraction of (3) present increases. Inthis form, the electrons of the nitrogen lone pair are available forfluorescence quenching of the anthracene moiety. At lower pH, the boronatom participates in a coordinate covalent bond, making the nitrogenlone pair electrons unavailable for quenching, resulting in higherfluorescent intensity.

The presence of a sugar molecule perturbs the (1)-(3) equilibrium. Theboronate ester (2) exhibits a different pKa from boronic acid (1). Thus,at a given pH the fluorescent-to-quenched state equilibrium is shifted,resulting in a net increase or decrease of observed fluorescenceintensity, depending on the pH of the experiment and the relative pKa ofthe boronic acids (1) and (2)

The ICT mechanism of signal transduction is illustrated schematically inScheme 5. In this instance the pH dependent equilibrium (1)-(3) isperturbed by the presence of a sugar molecule. At a given value of pH,this results in a different proportion of the fluorophores (boronicacids and boronate esters) being present in the hydroxylated form, thusmodulating the electron-withdrawing characteristics of that end of themolecule. In the case of the boronic chalcone molecule (1), in Scheme 5,this is manifested as a change in relative fluorescent intensity andonly a slight wavelength shift.

Another example of the ICT mechanism from Lakowicz's laboratory is shownin Scheme 6. In the case of the N-phenyl-3-nitro-1,8-naphthalimide, theICT phenomenon manifests itself in a change in relative fluorescentintensity at two wavelengths, resulting in a ratiometric probe. Thestarting point for these authors' design was the knowledge that suitableN-phenylnaphthalimides exhibit fluorescent emission at two wavelengthsand that the longer wavelength emission band shows solvatochromicbehavior.

Designing the Fluorophore-Boronic Acid Reporter

This compound consists of a fluorophore with long wavelength excitationand emission and high quantum yield. The phenylboronic acid moiety isincorporated in the molecular structure as an essential requirement toadd binding affinity for glucose and other diol-containing compounds.Solvatochromic properties may be defined. The photochemistry of thefluorophore is sensitive to its microchemical environment and solventpolarity. Boronic acid can directly affect photochemical properties suchas quantum yield and wavelength if it is attached to the fluorophore andserves as the e-withdrawing portion of a “push-pull” system. This can bedirect (when boron is connected directly to the fluorophore), orindirect (when the phenylboronic acid exerts a “through-bonds”electron-withdrawing inductive effect).

Prosthetic group selection is critical for fine-tuning molecularselectivity. Naturally occurring enzyme active sites and receptorsexhibit exquisite selectivity, even among closely-related compounds.This is possible due to the receptor's high degree of spatial andelectrostatic complementarity relative to the molecule in question.

In the case of glucose-binding proteins, for example, the selectivity ofthe enzyme glucose oxidase is achieved by hydrogen-bonding and closecontacts between a glucose molecule and more than six amino-acid sidechains present in the active site.

In the realm of small-molecule synthetic glucose reporters, somereported compounds achieve a relatively good specificity for glucoseover fructose—as much as 10-fold, considering that there is very littlein the way of molecular features (of the synthetic receptor) todistinguish one from the other. When designing a synthetic receptor,several strategies can be employed to improve specificity, namely:

1. Multiple Boronic Acid Binding Sites

-   -   Spatial disposition and distance will provide some selectivity        among competing saccharide molecules, due to geometric        constraints. (T. D. James, K. R. A. Samankumara Sandanayake, R.        Iguchi, and S. Shinkai, “Novel Saccharide-Photoinduced Electron        Transfer Sensors Based on the Interaction of Boronic Acid and        Amine”, J. Amer. Chem. Soc., 117, 8982 (1995)). Using two or        more boronic acid binding complicates the picture due to the        high affinity of the reversible formation of covalent bonds in        the boronate ester. The equilibrium-binding constant of a single        boronic acid based receptor is in the millimolar (mM) range for        glucose. The corresponding binding constant is micromolar (μM)        in the two-boronic acid case. Thus, at normal physiological        concentrations, the two-boronic probe would be saturated.

2. Adjacent H-Bond Donors and Acceptors

-   -   Additional H-bond donors and acceptors contribute only about 6        kcal/Mol., each, to ligand-receptor binding. Design of a        synthetic probe to include H-bonding sites provides a means to        provide a binding advantage to molecules, which present        H-bondable groups in the appropriate spatial orientation. Thus        the position and orientation can be designed in by reference to        molecular models, to enhance glucose specificity relative to        other saccharides.

3. Adjacent Non-Bonded Interactions

-   -   Specificity can be enhanced by model driven choice of other        chemical groups, such as alkyl side chains, which do not add to        binding affinity, but operate by spatial exclusion.

Several examples of novel boronic acid compounds based on variousfluorophores are given in the following examples.

EXAMPLE 5 Xanthene Dyes Used to Report Glucose by the ICT Mechanism orElectronic Perturbation of the Fluorophore

EXAMPLE 6 Xanthene Dyes Used to Report Glucose by the Pet Mechanism

Designing Xanthene-Based Reporters

A library of xanthene dyes is proposed to form a basis forStructure-Activity studies with respect to emission wavelength,ratiometric behavior, and quantum yield. The library of compounds ismade in a combinatorial synthesis paradigm, wherein each xanthenecompound is a result of a cross-product of suitable building blocks.Substituents are chosen with emphasis on final products that incorporateelectron-donating and electron-withdrawing groups as well as H-bonddonors and acceptors. Thus the library members will include compoundswith push-pull characteristics and solvatochromic sensitivity

The library compounds are generated according to the reaction sequenceoutlined in Scheme 7, below. These reactions employ standard chemicalmethods. The final reaction yields the nominal product and byproductscorresponding to disproportionation and recombination of the buildingblocks. Final products are isolated after standard purificationtechniques such as flash chromatography and semi-preparative HPLC.

The possible products comprising this library are delineatedschematically in FIG. 20 and the accompanying Tables 1, 2, and 3 asdemonstrated.

Tabulated Substituents on Building Blocks Used in the Xanthene Library.TABLE 1 Xanthene Building Blocks Incorporating R1, R2, R3, R4, and XBuilding Block R1 R2 R3 R4 X 1 OH O 2 N(CH₃)₂ O 3 OH S 4 SH S 5 SH O 6OCH₃ O 7 CF₃ O 8 OCH₃ OH O 9 NH₂ OH O 10 NO₂ OH O 11 CF₃ OH O 12 CH₃ OHO 13 Cl OH O 14 CN OH O 15 CH₃ OH CH3 O 16 Br O 17 COOH O 18 NO₂ O 19OCH₃ O 20 OH CH3 O 21 OAc O 22 N—Me₂ O 23 NH₂ O

TABLE 2 Xanthene Building Blocks incorporating R5, R6, and R7 BuildingBlock R5 R6 R7 1 COOH — — 2 COOH — COOH 3 — OH — 4 CH₃ NHAc 5 — OH —

TABLE 3 Xanthene Building Blocks Incorporating R8, R9, R10, R11, and XBuilding Block R8 R9 R10 R11 X 1 OH — — — O 2 — OH — — O 3 — — OH — O 4— — N—Me₂ — O 5 — — — Br O 6 — — — COOH OAppendix 1. List of Building Blocks for the Xanthene Library Composition

Summary of Design StrategyThis list comprises 15 A components, 18 B components. Combination ofthese materials would result in 270 xanthene dyes.

The list of components is A Components Fluoresceins: AF1; AF2Rhodamines: AR1 Thio derivatives: AT1; AT2 Rigidified xanthenes: ARg1;ARg2 Quinoid chromophores: AQ1 Push-Pull xanthenes Push: APus; APus2Pull: APul1; APul2 Naphtho xanthenes: AN1; AN2 Miscellaneous: AM1Xanthene analogs: AX1; AX2 B Components Fluoresceins: BF1 Rhodamines:BR1; BR2; BR3 Thiol derivatives: BT1; BT2 Heterocyclic analogs: BN1;BN2; BN3 Naphtho xanthenes: BNap1; BNap2 Push-Pull derivatives Push:BPus1; BPus2 Pull: BPul1; BPul2 Other: BM1; BM2; BM3; BM4

EXAMPLE 7 Phenalene-1-one Dyes Used as Glucose Reporters

EXAMPLE 8 Coumarin Derivatives Used as Glucose Reporters

EXAMPLE 9 Use of Coumarin-Boronic Acid SMMRs to Report Glucose inPlasma, Interstitial Fluid, or Other Body Fluids

The structure of the glucose sensing deprotected compound referred tofor this invention as (Argofluor-327d) is given here. The protectinggroup must be removed before the interaction of the compound withglucose can be examined.

The compound has been prepared by leaving an ethanol solution of theparent compound to stand overnight at room temperature in the dark.While not intending to be bound by theory, it is believed that ethanolreplaces the pinacol-protecting group in an equilibrium driven by theoverwhelming concentration of ethanol. Dilution of this stock solutioninto aqueous (pH 8) buffer shows that the largest change in theabsorption spectrum within about 20 minutes, as water displaces theethanol forming the deprotected boronic acid. Smaller changes in thespectrum are observed up to 90 minutes later.

The absorption and fluorescence spectra of Argofluor-327d were obtainedas a function of glucose concentration. The absorption spectrum changedby less than 10% at the excitation wavelength. A plot of thefluorescence intensity from 400 nm to 550 nm as a function of glucoseconcentration is shown in FIG. 50. There is no apparent shift in thewavelength maximum. The excitation wavelength was 375 nm. The longwavelength absorption maximum was found to be 333 nm. Note for thiscompound the fluorescence intensity increases by at least 40% over aglucose range of 200 mg/dL. A 60% rise in fluorescence intensity wasobserved on addition of glucose for a physiological glucoseconcentration range of 300 mg/dL. The maximum emission wavelengthposition remained constant at all glucose concentrations tested (i.e.,no wavelength EM maximum shift).

In Vitro Experiment (3 mL Total Volume in Buffer Solution)

While not intending to be bound by theory, it is believed that themechanism by which the intensity of fluorescence is affected by glucose,but not the emission wavelength, involves modulation of electron densityin the coumarin moiety. Calculations have shown that the electronaffinity of bound and free boronic acid is very different. Free boronicacid is strongly electron withdrawing while complexed boronic acid isneutral or even electron donating.

In light of the magnitude of the effect observed, other compound analogsare prepared to look for wavelength shift as well as a strong effect onbinding glucose.

An effect of glucose on the complexation of phenyl boronic acid withesculetin, i.e.

has also been observed.

These two compounds form a complex when the phenyl boronic acid ispresent at high concentration. In the presence of glucose, the complexis disrupted with a change in the fluorescence and absorption spectra.FIG. 51 shows the fluorescence spectra on top; and the absorptionspectra below. The purpose of an experiment such as this is that if acomplexed pair showed a large spectral change with glucose concentrationthen a tethered pair would be synthesized that would then reasonably beexpected to show a large change in their spectral properties in thepresence of glucose.

NMR Observation of Hydrolysis of Protected Boronic Acids

The timeframe in which a pinacol-protected boronic acid derivativehydrolyzes and converts into the free boronic acid, which then could becomplexed with glucose can be determined using NMR.

15 mg protected 4-amino-phenylboronic acid was dissolved in 0.75 mlCD₃OD and the ¹H-NMR spectrum was recorded immediately. A clear spectrumwas obtained. The sample was measured again after 1 h and 15 h. Thespectrum was essentially unchanged, which means, that the pinacol-groupis still attached to the boron. After 15 h two drops of D₂O (ca. 20 mg)were added into the NMR-sample and the spectrum recorded. This spectrumand a spectrum after 4 h were also almost unchanged, which means, thatthe protecting group is very stable in these media. The same kind oftest was conducted using the protected 3-phenol-boronic acid. It gaveessentially the same results. Understanding the removal of theprotecting group is an important step in the synthesis of boronic acidanalogs.

In-Vivo Glucose Detection Using Coumarin-Boronic Acid-Based Reporter

Three separate test series were performed in rats by injecting 100microliter of a 1 mM compound solution, followed by injection of 100microliter of buffer solution, with and without glucose at 300 mg/dLconcentration. Fluorescence was measured by excitation at 355 nm anddetection of emission at 440 nm. The typical experiments showed adecreasing baseline of tissue autofluorescence. Micro-injected dye spotsexhibited fluorescence intensity of more than 10× the autofluorescencebackground, under the experimental conditions. Injected spots alsoshowed changing fluorescence intensity (usually declining as thecompound was transported into cells). No effect of glucose could bediscerned in the experimental setup, due to positional sensitivity, andunknown mechanical factors in acquiring the dye spot and referencing theintensity.

In-Vitro Detection Using Coumarin-Boronic Acid-Based Reporter

PHK cells were loaded with AF-327d reporter, at 50 micromolarconcentration, in buffer. Fluorescence was measured using a two-photonfluorescent imaging system at approximately EM 440 nm, and excitation at(2P) 705 nm. Pictures taken 10 minutes apart show a slight change influorescence intensity upon increasing the glucose concentration to 300mg/dl in the cell buffer medium. This is seen clearly, as a 20% decreasein time course of fluorescence.

Glucose Response Rate Using Coumarin-Boronic Acid-Based Reporter

Arg-327 unprotected batches were prepared. One batch was supplied as ayellow powder and the other as a concentrated solution in deuteratedmethanol. A small sample of these materials was taken and dissolved in 3ml of pH 8 phosphate buffer. The fluorescence of these materials wasexcited at 340 nm and the emission monitored at 440 nm. The fluorescencewas monitored every 15 seconds in a stirred cuvette. After about 3minutes 100 μL of 300 mg/dL glucose in pH 8 buffer was added. The changein glucose increased immediately on this timescale and a plot of thefluorescence intensity as a function of time is shown in FIG. 52.Similar results were obtained for both samples.

Laboratory Synthesis of Boronic-Acid-Based Glucose Reporters

Preparation of Designation #AF-332: Coupling of a Protected4-aminophenylboronic Acid with 6-Methoxy-2-naphthoic Acid

NMR and MS analyses are consistent with the proposed structure.Preparation of Designation #AF-333: Coupling of 3-AminophenylboronicAcid with 6-Methoxy-2-naphthoic Acid

NMR spectrum of the isolated product is consistent with the proposedstructure

Preparation of Designation #AF-327 (ZW-17-41)

NMR if the isolated compound is consistent with the proposed structure.

Preparation of Designation #AF-327d (HN-2-58): Synthesis A, Coupling of4-Chlorocarbonylphenylboronic Anhydride with Coumarin 151

This reaction gives a higher yield of the desired product in contrast toother experiments using a coupling agent, in which the isolated yieldswere less than 5%. A major spot was found in TLC, which appears to bethe desired boronic acid. This compound is responsive to glucose, againexhibiting a 60% increase in fluorescence intensity in vitro, when[glucose] is changed from zero to 300 mg/dL. The NMR is consistent withthe proposed structure.

Preparation of Designation #AF-327d (HN-2-58 and HN-2-64) Resynthesis:Coupling of 4-Chlorocarbonylphenylboronic Anhydride with Coumarin 151

Preparation of Designation #AF-327d (HN-2-59): Synthesis B, Coupling of4-Chlorocarbonylphenylboronic Anhydride with Coumarin 120

Resynthesis of AF-327d (HN-2-78): Additional Supply of AF-327d wasPrepared According to the Methods Previously Reported.

Approximately 100 mg (13% yield) of pure product and 250 mg unreactedCoumarin-151 were recovered. Em=440 nm; ex=340 nm.

Preparation of Designation #AF-329 (ZW-17-51)

NMR of the purified compound is consistent with the assigned structure.

Preparation of Designation #AF-329d (HN-2-71) Preparation: Reaction of4-Chlorocarbonylphenylboronic Anhydride with 6-Amino-1H-phenalene-1-one

TLC shows some new bright yellow spots. The crude mix shows a hugeStokes shift. No response to the addition of Glucose could be observed.

Preparation of Designation #AF-330 (ZW-17-54)

A product was isolated by column purification. It is being analyzed foridentity and properties. Paradoxically, it appears colorless in thebottle.

Preparation of Designation #AF-333-1 (ZW-17-55)

A pure product has been obtained. Characterization is in process.

Preparation of Designation #AF-334 (HN-2-47): Coupling of the AcidChloride of Coumarin-343 with 3-aminophenylboronic acid.

Preparation of Designation #AF-334 (HN-2-48): Coupling of the AcidChloride of Coumarin 3-carboxylic Acid with 3-aminophenylboronic Acid.

Preparation of Designation #AF-335 (HN-2-47): Coupling of Coumarin-343with 3-Aminophenyl-boronic Acid

No useful product was observed, due to limited solubility in reactionmedium.

Preparation of Designation #AF-336 (HN-2-50): Preparation of aFluorescein-Like Xanthyl-Boronic Acid

Preparation of Designation #AF-337 (HN-2-52): Preparation of aRhodamine-Like Xanthyl-Boronic Acid:

Crude reaction mixture is deep red.

Preparation of Designation #AF-337 (HN-2-77) Preparation of aRhodamine-Like Xanthyl-Boronic Acid:

Reaction carried out at room temperature, or with heating to reflux,showed no indication of product formation.

Preparation of Designation #AF-338 (HN-2-65): Reaction of4-Chlorocarbonylphenylboronic Anhydride with Coumarin 500

Two batches were combined and worked up to provide 45 mg of purecompound for additional experiments.

Preparation of Designation #AF-339 (HN-2-70) synthesis: Coupling of4-Chlorocarbonylphenylboronic Anhydride with 4-nitroaniline

This model compound was prepared, to combine the solvatochromic effectsof 4-nitroaniline with glucose binding capability of phenyl boronicacid. Response to glucose in vitro was weaker than AF-327.

Preparation of Designation #AF-340 (HN-2-72) Preparation: Coupling ofChlorocarbonylphenylboronic Anhydride with8-Hydroxy-1,3,6-pyrenetrisulfonic Acid, Trisodium Salt. (Pyronin; D&CGreen #8)

TLC shows a nonfluorescent spot at Rf=0.3 and a very fluorescent spot onthe starting line. No product was isolated.

Preparation of Designation #AF-341 (HN-2-73) Preparation: Boronic-AcidContaining (Semi-Rhodafluor) Xanthene Structure.

No evidence of product formation corresponding to xanthene structure.

Preparation of Designation #AF-342 (HN-2-69, 75, 76) Preparation:Boronic-Acid Containing Rhodamine 110 Structure.

Reaction was attempted in THF; in Acetonitrile; and in DMF. In allcases, no new product was observed.

Preparation of Designation #AF-343 (EB-16-40): Preparation of aCoumarin-Boronic Acid Chalcone Compound:

A rust-colored solid product was formed. No fluorescence or glucoseeffect was observed.

Preparation of Designation #AF-344 (EB-16-42): Preparation of aCoumarin-Boronic Acid Chalcone Compound

Besides starting material, a major red fluorescent spot at Rf=0.25 wasobserved in TLC. This compound was isolated and purified. There was noobserved effect of glucose in vitro. NMR suggests that the compound islikely a dimer of Coumarin 334. By NMR, no spectral featurescorresponding to the boronic acid incorporation were observed. A minororange fluorescent product, represented by a spot at Rf=0.1 was alsoinactive in regard to glucose addition.

Preparation of AF-345 (EB-16-100): This Compound was Attempted toExplore Another Fluorophore Family.

This reaction proceeded in approximately 10 percent yield, following theprocedure previously employed in AF-327d. 11 mg of pure product wasrecovered.

The AF-345 compound is fluorescent em=435 nm; ex=330 nm. Fluorescenceintensity was observed to increase by 30% on addition of 300 mg/dlglucose concentration.

Comparison Materials

Designations #HN-2-32 and #HN-2-44: Preparation of 3-Phenylboronic acid3-nitro-1,8-naphthalenedicarboximide (Ref. See Lakowicz, OrganicLetters, 9, 1503 (2002))

This compound was prepared for comparison to literature results on thespectroscopic detection of glucose reporting efficacy.

Designation #HN-2-42: Preparation of Protected 4-Phenylboronic Acid3-nitro-1,8-naphthalenedicarboximide (Analog of the Lakowicz CompoundAbove)

TLC of the reaction mixture shows multiple products.

Preparation of Designation #HN-2-44: Preparation of 3-Phenylboronic Acid3-nitro-1,8-naphthalenedicarboximide (See Lakowicz. Organic Letters, 9,1503 (2002))

The major product isolated has NMR consistent with the reportedstructure, but UV which does not fit the literature. A minor product hasthe reported UV characteristics, but NMR inconsistent with the reportedstructure. It is likely that the material reported by Lakowicz is amixture and not a pure compound.

EXAMPLE 10 Carbostyril Derivatives Used as Glucose Reporters

EXAMPLE 11 Use of Tethered Molecules for Glucose Measurement

Suitable tethers include both ring structures and linear systems(example given in Scheme 8, below). The advantage of a ring system isthat the structure is semi-rigid which limits the degree of entropy inthe system. If the system is too flexible, the two chromophores will beless likely to approach each other. In order of complexity, cyclictethers include cycloalkanes, crown ethers, cyclodextrins and cyclicpeptides. The number of residues in the ring system is chosen so thatthe chromophores come close enough together to promote complexformation.

EXAMPLE 12 Use of a Crown Ether for Glucose Detection

Substitution of the ring system may at a ring carbon position forcycloalkanes and crown ethers, at a hydroxyl group in cyclodextrins oron any of the amino acid residues in a cyclic peptide (example given inScheme 9). The cyclic peptide may be designed to have some specificityfor glucose by choosing a peptide sequence that mimics the binding sitefound in a protein such as glucose oxidase or glucose dehydrogenase.

EXAMPLE 13 Use of Cyclic Decapeptide Fluorophores for Glucose and OtherDiol Sensing

This example describes a molecule for use in the detection andquantification of glucose. This glucose sensing occurs by means of afluorescent reporter whose photophysical properties are modulated bydirect binding with glucose or other diol molecules. Such reportersconsist of three mechanistic parts:

-   -   1. A fluorophore with suitable photochemical characteristics;    -   2. A chemical affinity group that binds reversibly with glucose        and similar molecular species (cyclic peptide);    -   3. Additional substructural features to favor specificity for        Glucose over Fructose and other saccharides.

A cyclic peptide is proposed as a structural element that incorporatesH-Bond donating and accepting atoms to provide affinity to glucose (andother biomolecules). Careful choice of amino acid residues forming thepeptide will allow for adjusting specificity.

Two proof of concept compounds are demonstrated: Cyclic peptides “A” and“B” (Scheme 10).

Cyclic Decapeptide “A”

Glucose binding to Peptide A is confirmed by: (1) examination of changein fluorescence polarization of Tryptophan, or (2) changes in energytransfer from Tyrosine to Tryptophan. Note: added serines will boost thebinding affinity for Glucose by additional H-bonding sites.

Cyclic Decapeptide “B”

Glucose binding to Peptide B is confirmed by one or more of thefollowing: (1) examination of change in fluorescence polarization ofTryptophan, (2) changes in fluorescent quenching of tryptophan by thenitrogen of Lysine, (3) change in fluorescence polarization oftryptophan, or (4) a change in fluorescence polarization or energytransfer of a fluorophore connected to the end of the Lysine side chain.Note: added serines will boost the binding affinity for Glucose byadditional H-bonding

Quantitation

SMMR compounds have a number of quantifiable parameters in common. Theyhave high molar absorption coefficients (>50,000 dm³ mol⁻¹cm⁻¹), highfluorescence quantum yield (>0.2), and they interact only withcomponents of the cell or biological system that are present in highconcentration. This last requirement helps minimize the toxicity of theSMMR. Competitive inhibition of enzymatic processes and interferencewith cellular processes is minimized if the SMMR does not interact witha significant fraction of the cells metabolic pathways.

Rational Design for Novel SMMR Compounds

This section discloses the aspects important to intelligent design ofSMMRs for glucose detection. There are several individual propertiesinvolved during the rational molecular design process and these aredisclosed within the following text.

The fluorescence quantum yield (Φ_(F)) of a molecule is given byequation (12). $\begin{matrix}{\phi_{F} = \frac{k_{r}}{k_{r} + k_{nr}}} & ( {{EQ}.\quad 12} )\end{matrix}$Where k_(r) is the radiative rate constant and k_(nr) is thenon-radiative rate constant. In this discussion, the term k_(nr)includes all mechanisms for decay that does not lead to fluorescence.The Φ_(F) of BeXan type dyes is typically 0.2 or less. The reasons thevalue is so low may include the flexibility which increases the numberof vibrational modes available to the compound, intramolecular reactionsor competing photophysical pathways such as intersystem crossing. All ofthese processes increase k_(nr) for deactivation of the excited state.For BeXan it is unlikely that flexibility or intramolecular reactionscontribute significantly to k_(nr), other molecules of similar size andsubstitution have Φ_(F) values close to unity. It is more likely thatintersystem crossing for the molecule is significant and is the causefor the low Φ_(F). If the BeXan structure is drawn as shown here thenthe molecule can be designed with two linked chromophores (Scheme 11,below):

a quinoid type structure involving the heteroatom at position 9 and asubstituted naphthalene structure involving the heteroatom at position3. Het refers to a heteroatom, most commonly oxygen or nitrogen. Thephotochemistry may be interpreted as a combination of these twochromophores. The validity of this kind of interpretation is dependenton the fraction time the molecule may be considered in thisconfiguration as opposed to a configuration involving a naphthoquinoidand a phenol type structure.

The configuration of the dye is strongly influenced by the nature of theheteroatom substitution. The structure of the dye responsible for theabsorption may be estimated by consideration of the photophysicalproperties of related compounds and calculations on them. For examplecomparison of fluorescein and BeXan type dyes are shown in FIGS. 21 aand 21 b, with structures shown in Schemes 11 and 12, respectively.

Table 4 demonstrates the absorption and emission maxima (i.e.,wavelength in nanometers) with corresponding energies for fluoresceinand BeXan visible spectral absorption bands. The table also demonstratesother spectral properties for a comparison of these two molecularstructures. TABLE 4 Absorption and emission position and energy data forfluorescein and BeXan Absorption Emission Absorption Emission WavelengthWavelength Energy Energy (nm) (nm) (kcal/mol) (kcal/mol) Fluorescein455, 483 516, 541 62.8, 59.2 55.4, 52.9 Protonated Fluorescein 501 54057.1 53   Deprotonated BeXan 518, 549 586, 635 55.2, 52.1 48.8, 45  Protonated BeXan 576 640 49.6 44.7 Deprotonated Difference in energy ofprotonated absorption bands Fluorescein 3.6 kcal/mol BeXan 3.1 kcal/molStokes shift for deprotonated bands Fluorescein 4.1 kcal/mol BeXan 4.9kcal/mol Stokes shift for protonated bands Fluorescein 3.8 kcal/molBeXan 3.3 kcal/mol Band positions relative to the high-energy protonatedabsorption band Absorption Emission Fluorescein (kcal/mol) High energyprotonated band 0 7.4 Low energy protonated band 3.6 9.9 Deprotonatedband 5.7 9.8 BeXan (kcal/mol) High energy protonated band 0 6.4 Lowenergy protonated band 3.1 10.2 Deprotonated band 5.6 10.5

These two compounds show very similar visible absorption and emissionspectra. The absorption spectrum of the BeXan type dye is about 70 nmshifted to the red, probably as a consequence of extended conjugationcompared with fluorescein. The emission spectrum of BeXan is shifted byas much as 100 nm compared to fluorescein. Despite this difference inthe wavelengths the energy spacing of the visible bands is also similar.There is a slightly larger Stokes shift for BeXan, which may have beenexpected since the flexibility of the naphthoxanthene structure islikely to be greater than that for the xanthene ring.

The similarities in these spectra support the idea that in the BeXanring system there is a high degree of delocalization both in theprotonated and the deprotonated form of the dye as is observed forfluorescein. These similarities also support the idea that substitutionof other heteroatoms onto the xanthene ring structure should not lead tosignificant changes to the spectral properties of the molecule. Theparameter that cannot be accounted for in this kind of analysis is thequantum yield of fluorescence.

Comparison of the Structures of Two Dyes

As an example of the principle, Malachite green is an aryl methine dyethat absorbs strongly in the red region of the spectrum (150,000 dm³mol⁻¹ cm⁻¹). It is non-fluorescent. Conjugation in this moleculeprobably extends over the three phenyl rings with the positive chargelocated primarily on the two substituted rings [FIG. 22 shows theabsorption spectrum (left), and the molecular structures (right)].Comparison of this structure with that of Rhodamine B shows the twosubstituted rings tied together with an oxygen bridge [FIG. 23 shows theabsorption spectrum (left), and the molecular structures (right)]. Themolar absorption coefficient is 109,000 dm³ mol⁻¹ cm⁻¹. Molecularmodeling shows the phenyl ring twisted out of plane with respect to thexanthene ring. A consequence of this is that the molecule has anabsorption maximum about 60 nm to the blue, supporting the view that thephenyl ring is not involved in the main xanthene chromophore. Themolecule is also significantly more rigid than the aryl methine dye andthe quantum yield of fluorescence is close to unity.

Consideration of the structures of these two compounds and theirdesirable photophysical properties leads to the design of a newchromophore that may well have a very high molar absorption coefficientand a high quantum yield of fluorescence, the structure of which isshown in Scheme 13.

Molecular modeling of this compound shows it to be highly planar andfrom earlier arguments it would be expected to absorb at 600 nm orhigher and to be highly fluorescent. There is little informationconcerning this type of structure in the literature but a synthesis hasbeen published of a molecule2,6,10-Tris(dialkylamino)trioxatriangulenium(2,6,10-Tris(dialkylamino)trioxatriangulenium ions. Synthesis,structure, and properties of exceptionally stable carbenium ions. B. W.Laursen, F. C. Krebs, M. F. Nielsen, K. Bechgaard, J. B. Christensen andN. Harrit. J. Am. Chem. Soc. (1998) 120 12255-12263). The rationalbehind its synthesis however extends to other molecules with heteroatomsubstitution including the carbonyl/hydroxyl derivative, the sulfuranalog and mixed heteroatom analogs such as that proposed in Scheme 14.

To the best of our knowledge there is no previous reference to theoxygen or sulfur analog as proposed in Scheme 15.

Enhancement of Cellular Retention and Quantum Yield

The problems that exist for the some dyes that make them unsuitable asSMMRs are low quantum yield of fluorescence, poor retention insidecells, and toxicity. These problems may be addressed to a certain extentby binding the dye to a controlled size metal particle. The fact thatthe quantum yield for fluorescence is determined by the balance betweenthe radiative and non-radiative rate constants has already beendiscussed. For dyes that have low quantum yield of fluorescence thenon-radiative rate constant dominates the radiative rate constant. Inthe presence of a strong electric field, the radiative rate constant maybe increased to such an extent that it dominates in determining thequantum yield.

This phenomenon is will known near the surface of metals. If afluorophore with a low quantum yield is placed within a certain distancefrom a metal surface then a dramatic shortening of the fluorescencelifetime and an enhancement of the fluorescence quantum yield may beobserved. If very small (nm) beads are used to bind the dye, or the dyeresides on the surface of the metal the dye may stop fluorescingcompletely. Selecting the optimum bead size and dye spacing from thesurface of the metal has some important consequences:

If the bead is too small or if the dye is so close to the metal that itresides on the surface, the excited state of the dye is completelyquenched. If the particle size is too large, the particle bound dye willnot be taken up by the cell.

The optimum dye-to-particle spacing and particle size will lead to aSMMR system that has a quantum yield close to unity. Because theradiative rate constant is so high the fluorescent lifetime will beshort and as a result there will be less time for excited statechemistry to take place, reducing photoxicity. Since the dye is bound toa relatively large bead it cannot migrate away from the active site andoverall toxicity is reduced. With a short excited state lifetime thephotostability of the molecule will be improved for the same reason thatthe phototoxicity is reduced. The synthesis of these complexes isrelatively simple. If the bead is made from gold then the dye will bindwith a free thiol group. These molecules may be prepared starting withthe chloromethyl BeXan dye. It is reacted at a 1:1 ratio with adithioalkane. The free thiol terminus binds to the gold surface.

Effective concentrations of SMMRs to be applied in compositions andmethods of the invention are in the range of at least 1 to 500 μg/ml,e.g. 5 to 150 μg/ml or 10 to 100 μg/ml. The concentration of SMMRs usedis preferably from 10 to 500 μM, more preferably from 100 to 300 μM, andmost preferably from 150 to 250 μM.

Design Strategy for Boronic Acid Glucose Reporters

Designing Ratiometric Direct Glucose Detection Probes

A phenyl-boronic acid and a diol, e.g. a molecule of glucose (or twoequivalents of a monohydric alcohol) exist in a 4-way equilibrium inaqueous solution. This is shown schematically in FIG. 24 and has beendiscussed previously.

The pKa of Phenylboronic Acid Compounds and their Interaction with Diols

FIG. 25 shows typical schematic curves of the influence of pH on boronicacid-saccharide binding. In this conceptual example, the Y-axisrepresents percent present as the hydroxylated species. Actual examplesare presented in the literature wherein the Y axis is denominated interms of an instrument observation like fluorescence intensity.

The point illustrated here is that the pH dependent equilibrium of the“unbound” (1→2) boronic acid has a pKa of 1 to 2 units greater than the“bound” (3→4) (sugar-complex) form. [pKa of the boronic acid (a Lewisacid) is the pH value at which the titration curve is at 50% ofmaximum.]

A consequence of the difference in the curves is that at a given pH,(e.g. pH=7) the boronic acid-sugar complex exists mainly in thehydroxylated form (4), whereas the free boronic acid exists mainly inthe neutral form (1).

For purposes of creating a biological sensor, the actual pKa of thebound and unbound forms can be adjusted by engineering the molecule toinclude electron-donating or electron-withdrawing atoms.

The practical importance of this observation comes into play when thereis some observable property of a boronic acid-containing molecule thatchanges depending on the state of hydroxylation. For example, when aphenyl boronic acid is used in the signal transduction scheme of aglucose reporter molecule (see below) maximum dynamic range of thereporter signal may be obtained, when the pKa's of the boronic acid areadjusted, such that the bound form has pKa less than 7 and the unboundform has pKa greater than 7. In that case, at pH ˜7 (normalphysiological range) the glucose-bound complex exists primarily in thehydroxylated form, whereas, in the absence of glucose (or othersaccharide) the neutral form predominates.

In the case of Argofluor-327d or other p-carboxamido-phenylboronicacids, the pKa (not measured for AF-327d) is close to optimal for thisphenomenon to take place.

Thus a large swing in fluorescence intensity has been observed due tothe predominance of species 4, when glucose is present. Thephenylboronic acid species 4 exerts an electron donating influence,whereas the species 1 is weakly withdrawing. In the context of anelectronic “push-pull” fluorophore such as Coumarin-151, this translatesinto increased fluorescence intensity on hydroxylation. See FIG. 26.

In practice, AF-327d maintains a constant 440 nm emission wavelengthwith and without added glucose at pH=7, in our experimentalmeasurements. The calculations herein to predict wavelength would havesuggested a red-shift of as much as 79 nm (536 vs. 457) onhydroxylation—going from species 1 to 4.

A relatively large wavelength change between forms 1 and 4 would be anecessary precondition to observe resolved fluorescent emission peaksattributable to the two forms. This would become useful as a ratiometricprobe, which could be accurately calibrated top glucose concentration.With this in mind, a number of synthetically accessible probe types wereevaluated by calculating predicted emission wavelengths. Such compoundscould form the basis for a; future chemical synthesis campaign.

Other model compounds were analyzed to attempt to predict emissionwavelength shift. Examples are presented in FIG. 27. Compounds such asthese, wherein there is a very large predicted wavelength shift onhydroxylation would be a reasonable place to start on designing afluorescent probe with ratiometric behavior.

Solvatochromism Using Aniline-Boronic Acid-Based Reporters

Comparison of the electron withdrawing properties of a nitro group and aboronic acid are similar. The absorption and fluorescence of p-nitroaniline and p-boronic acid aniline have been compared in a variety ofsolvents. These findings are useful for designing boronic acids thatshow a ratiometric change in absorption and or fluorescence in thepresence of glucose. The nitro substituted material is a simpler modelfor the electron withdrawing properties of a boronic acid.

The absorption spectra are shown above (FIG. 28 (a)). The longwavelength band is a charge transfer band the position of which issensitive to the solvent. This behavior is well known. The material isnot fluorescent. The absorption spectra are also virtually identical inacid and base.

The corresponding spectra for p-Boronic acid aniline are shown below(FIG. 28(b)). The p-boronic acid aniline was prepared from a derivativeprotected with a pinacol group by dissolving in ethanol. A small (20 μL)aliquot of this solution was then added to 3 mL of the solvent.

The material absorbs at a much shorter wavelength and the lowest energyband is much less solvent sensitive. The material is fluorescent. Theabsorption spectra are also sensitive to pH and the spectra for acid (pH2) and alkali (pH 12) conditions are shown below (FIG. 28(c)).

Glucose Reporting Using Pyrene-Boronic Acid-Based Reporters

Pyrene boronic acid fluorescence increases in the presence of glucose,but this effect has only been observed in methanol and not in aqueoussolutions (See FIG. 29).

For both coumarin-based and pyrene-based boronic acids the quantum yieldof fluorescence increases with glucose. The fluorescence and theabsorption spectra remain the same implying that there is no change inthe electronic configuration of the ground and excited state.

Approaches to Enhance D-Glucose Specificity

Phenyl Boronic acid analogs bind reversibly to hydroxyl containingcompounds to form a stable boronate ester. This equilibrium isestablished in solution, at room temperature with alcohols, in aqueoussolution. The equilibrium is particularly favorable with diols and otherpolyhydroxy compounds, when binding to two vicinal hydroxyl groupsallows for the formation of a highly favorable 5-membered-ring reactionproduct. Early on Boric Acid (1) and Phenyl Boronic Acid (2) werestudied in relation to their binding with various sugar molecules.

Since the 1980's, many investigators have considered phenyl boronicacids as a suitable reactive moiety to bind to glucose and othersaccharides. Derivatives of Phenylboronic acid have been invoked in manyschemes for the direct measurement of the concentration of Glucose andother sugars. In particular, phenylboronic acid has formed a key elementin signal transduction in fluorescence-based glucose assays. (3)

The majority of the schemes employ boronic acid to bind to the targetsaccharide and to modulate photophysical properties of the fluorophorethrough a quenching mechanism or direct effect on the electronicconfiguration of the fluorophore itself. The observable effect ofsaccharide binding manifests itself through changes in wavelength and/orintensity.

The boronic acid-sugar detection schemes are specific fordiol-containing compounds. Phenylboronic acid shows a small butobservable specificity in its bonding affinity to various sugars. Theorder Fructose>Arabinose, Ribose>Galactose>Glucose has been observed inthe literature, although the relative specificity spans only 1 to 2orders of magnitude. (4)

This is acceptable in the case of laboratory assays in the absence ofinterfering compounds. However, in-vivo, or with physiological samples,many additional saccharides, including glycoproteins are present inunknown large concentrations, which interfere with a satisfactory assay.

In nature, glucose and other individual saccharide molecules arerecognized with exquisite specificity. In enzymes (glucose oxidase,hexokinase) and bacterial periplasmic binding proteins (PBP) (glucosebinding protein; arabinose BP; ribose BP; etc) the individual sugarmolecule is bound in a receptor or active-site by intermolecular forces,which achieve chemical complementarity with the molecule in question.This is a delicate balance of nonbonded, electrostatic, and H-bondinginteractions, which exclude undesired molecules and provide strongaffinity to the one native target molecule. The binding pockets of thisfamily of proteins, favor H-bonding to the bound sugar by side chains ofglutamates aspartates and asparagines. (5)

These features can be evaluated by visualization and inspection of thepublished crystal structures of the proteins, with their nativesaccharide-molecule ligand. All of these proteins and more particularly,all within a given family, share a common attribute forspecificity-determination. The small saccharide molecule, i.e. glucose,etc., is bound (indeed almost totally surrounded) in a concave bindingpocket, which effectively excludes molecules above a size threshold.

Hellinga has reported and patented protein-mediated assay systems, basedon a environmentally-sensitive fluorophore attached to the appropriatethe binding protein (6). For example, a sensitive and selective glucosereporter is based on glucose-binding protein, conjugated to NBD,Fluorescein, pyrene, and other fluorophores. This study alsodemonstrated that specificity can be tailored to accommodate man-madesmall molecules, by site-directed mutagenesis of the residues that linethe putative monosaccharide binding pocket.

Thus, the specific reporting of glucose is solved, for small in-vitroassays. The concept faces practical barriers to in-vivo implementation,such as that of delivering a relatively large protein molecule.

Specificity with Small-Molecule Synthetic Reporters

In a small-molecule reporter context, strategies may be enumerated forachieving specificity for glucose (ratio of binding equilibriumconstants) over larger saccharide-containing species:

-   -   1. Bidentate (or polydentate) reporters, that restrict the        preferred saccharide ligand by size and accessible orientations.    -   2. Reporters with additional auxiliary side chains to simulate a        binding-pocket environment.    -   3. Reporters incorporating a semi-rigid small binding pocket        environment to complement the boronic acid and other “side        chains”    -   4. Repulsion of the larger molecules by placement of        functionality similar to silicone polymer        Bidentate Reporters

Attempts have been made to improve glucose specificity by engineeringboronic acid based fluorescent sensors that favor one sugar overanother. This has been accomplished by adjusting the distance of anintramolecular linker, between two boronic acid groups, thusconstraining the geometry into which a sugar molecule can fit. (7)Several examples from the literature are given in FIG. 30.

Boronic-Acid Reporters with Auxiliary Side Chains

A similar concept is proposed, using one boronic acid group and othermolecular fragments which provide intermolecular attraction andconstrain the space into which a sugar molecule can bind. Molecularfragments to be employed in this regard are selected with a preferencefor the amino acid side chains that comprise the binding site of thePBP's (Asp, Asn, Glu, Gln, Ser, etc). As an initial attempt, neutralfragments (like Asn, Gln, or Ser) are most likely due to molecularproperty considerations. Such a “small molecule” multi-domain reporter(SMMDR) is advantageous in its ready assembly by general methods ofsynthetic organic chemistry and its small size, which facilitatestransdermal delivery, in-vivo.

FIG. 31 shows illustrative examples of SMMDR concepts. Compounds 1, 2,and 3 modulate fluorescence by sugar displacing the dihydroxy coumarinfluorophore from the boronic acid group. Compounds 3, 4, and 5 modulatefluorescence by a photochemically induced electron transfer mechanism,wherein sugar binds to boron, displacing the nitrogen proximal to thefluorophore, making its electron pair available for quenching.

FIG. 32 shows examples of SMMDR concepts in which compounds 7 thru 11incorporate phenylboronic acid as an element of a push-pull fluorophore.Fluorescence intensity and/or wavelength are modulated by change of theboronic substituent from electron-withdrawing to electron-donating inthe glucose binding equilibrium. Additional carboxamide H-bonding groups(based on Asn) are appended in the vicinity of the boronic acid toincrease affinity and geometry-induced selectivity for the sugar ofinterest.

In practice such concept compounds would be refined by molecularmodeling techniques to assure that dimensions and geometry are optimalfor selectivity with the sugar molecule of interest, and that theauxiliary binding groups provide the maximum affinity on binding.

Reporters Incorporating a Semi-Rigid Binding Pocket Environment

An additional refinement of the multi-domain concept is to add a naturalmolecular binding pocket, which is an integral part of the reportermolecule structure. This general concept has been employed in a numberof selective ionophores and used in ion assay systems. The basic notionis to create a ring or pocket-like structure, of optimal size, whichalso possesses some natural binding affinity toward the analyte ofinterest. Overall binding affinity is enhanced over a non rigid analog,due to a diminished entropy eanalty on binding. In the case of glucosebinding, crown ethers and cyclic peptides are a logical starting point.These molecules are advantageous in a) synthetic accessibility, b)adjustable size, c) general biocompatibility, and d) ability to attachadditional side chains to enhance binding or steric exclusion.

The first iteration of such a cyclic peptide might contain tyrosine andtryptophan residues. The binding of glucose could then be detected by achange in the efficiency of energy transfer from tyrosine to tryptophan.Some preliminary modeling of the interaction of the cyclic peptide withglucose has been done. (FIG. 33). Additional general concepts areillustrated in FIG. 34.

Repulsion and/or Size Exclusion of Larger Molecules

In the context of the small binding pocket concept proposed above,compounds could be designed and prepared, in which reporting ofglycoproteins is minimized or eliminated. Two concepts are proposed tosolve this problem: a) incorporating functional groups that repel thehydrophilic surface of a protein, e.g. the functionality of a siliconepolymer; and b) establishment of sham binding sites, which whenoccupied, exclude binding of large species to the reporter binding site.See FIG. 35.

Combinatorial/Iterative Design Approach

Due to the subtle distinctions required in molecular recognition amongstdifferent sugar molecules, the most fruitful approach to creating andimproving ligand-binding specificity is an evolutionary/combinatorialparadigm. The desired SMMDR structure is treated as modular andassembled from molecular building blocks. SMMDR molecules thus conceivedare pre-screened and scored by analysis in-silico, prior to beginningsynthetic chemistry efforts. A general flow chart for addressing thisproblem is illustrated in FIG. 36.

This method is applicable to the series of discrete moleculesillustrated above, as well as a series of combinatorially-generatedcompounds.

The library generation/dock and score/virtual screening paradigm isapplicable to any arbitrary set of candidate chemical compounds. A knownchemical synthesis method is not necessary to conduct this in-silicoanalysis, however a ready means to construct target structures isadvantageous when new compounds are proposed for testing.

Over the last decade there has developed a rich literature on synthesisof diverse combinatorial libraries comprising 3 or more points ofdiversity, and considerable stereochemical variability. Thus, some ofthe basic library structural types from the literature may be evaluatedto form the basis for SMMDR libraries. (7) Several concept examples arepresented in FIG. 37.

The ordinary paradigm of drug development relies on modification of a“small-molecule” to enhance its fit into a relatively “fixed” receptor,active site, or binding pocket. Specificity in this interaction (vs.other similar receptors) is accomplished by adjusting the chemicalfunctionality, size, and geometry of the small molecule, to enhancenon-bonded interactions (charges, van der Waals interactions, dipoles,etc.) such that the interaction energy with the target of interest ismore favorable than with other targets.

One way to consider the specificity problem is that the small molecule(i.e. glucose) is fixed and a synthetic “receptor” (SMMR) is adjusted inways to exclude larger and undesired saccharides, while enhancing thebinding energy between our SMMR and glucose. By way of non-limitingexample, several approaches are suggested:

-   -   1. Bidentate and multi-dentate phenylboronic acid—SMMR's    -   2. Artificial binding pockets based on crown ethers, cyclic        peptides, etc.    -   3. Multi-dentate SMMR's with Boronic acid and other interacting        side chains based on precedent from naturally occurring proteins        and other literature. A

Nature has solved the specificity problem in enzymes (hexokinase,glucose oxidase, etc.); Periplasmic binding proteins, and lectins, bycreating a relatively constrained binding pocket within a large proteinmolecule.

There is a trade-off of size and specificity. For example, a very smallSMMR does not embody sufficient molecular features (information content)for good specificity. A feature-rich large molecule can be veryspecific, but may suffer from multiple practical and economic drawbacks.Alternate Fluorophores

Alternate fluorophores based on carbostyril and quinazoline have beenidentified. Characteristics of these alternate fluorophores include:

Carbostyrils—Similar structure-activity relationship (SAR) to coumarins,long-wavelength examples, known SAR to get high quantum yield.

Quinazolines—opportunity for enzymatic activation in situ; and exampleswith large stokes shift.

A number of quinazoline derivatives have been reported in theliterature, as fluorescent reporters. They offer the advantage of facilesynthesis of diverse analogs, high quantum yield and large Stokes shift.The Quinazolin-4(3H)-one analog ELF-97 in particularly interesting inenzymatic assays. For example, the weakly-fluorescent, phosphate esterof ELF-97 is hydrolyzed by acid and alkaline phosphatase enzymes, toyield the insoluble alcohol. Interestingly, the hydrolyzed form isstrongly fluorescent, with a very large stokes shift and is insoluble inaqueous solution.

The fluorescence of these compounds arises from the ability of themolecule to adopt a planar conformation, stabilized by an intramolecularHydrogen bond when the bulky phosphate group is hydrolyzed away (FIG.38).

It is likely that an ester or amide of a similar SMMR could be created,such that the compound would be activated by esterases or proteases inthe interstitial medium of the epidermis. The resulting insoluble,fluorescent compound may be less likely to move by diffusion.

One compound for direct glucose detection, AF-327d, is a boronic acidanalog, based on Coumarin-151. It derives its fluorescence from apush-pull fluorophore, whose donating/withdrawing properties aremodulated through the acid-base equilibrium that occurs on theboronic-acid moiety (FIG. 39). This compound exhibits a strongerresponse to glucose than other published compounds. The followingcharacteristics of this compound can be modified:

-   -   1. Specificity—modifications to distinguish glucose from other        non-glucose saccharides.    -   2. Wavelength—a longer wavelength is desirable, to avoid        interference of auto-fluorescence in vivo    -   3. Calibration—Ratiometric self-referencing is will be helpful.        Computational Studies        Wavelength

Using the correlation of wavelength vs. computed HOMO-LUMO energy gap,it is possible to predict the fluorescent wavelength of candidatecompounds. Substituent patterns on coumarin, carbostyril, and xantheneanalogs were evaluated. Additional studies assessed the predictedeffects of annellation to the corresponding naphtho-analogs, andalternate linkages between the fluorophore and boronic acid unitsanalogous to AF-327d.

Conclusions from the computational predictions are presented as relativechange in predicted wavelength—

-   -   1. N,N-dimethyl substituent increases predicted wavelength about        +10 to +12 nm vs.-NH₂ in coumarin analogs, FIG. 40 (A).    -   2. Annellation to form a naphthocoumarin can increase wavelength        dramatically FIG. 40 (B).    -   3. Wavelength is sensitive to substitution pattern, which        affects the strength of the push-pull interaction, FIG. 40 (C).

This wavelength effect is predicted to carry over to a Naphtho-coumarinanalog of AF-327d, as shown in FIG. 41.

The general influence of ring annellation is also observed in the caseof xanthenes, which can be viewed as a “benzocoumarin” or a 14-πelectron homolog of the coumarin ring system (FIG. 42).

Starting from a relatively long wavelength analog of Rhodamine 700,conversion to the semi-naphthorhodafluor provides an additional dramaticincrease in predicted wavelength over the corresponding coumarin analog(FIG. 43).

These predictions provide an ideal roadmap for elaboration oflonger-wavelength analogs for our direct glucose probes. The synthesisof R-700 and a few naphthocoumarin analogs is known in the literature.Semi-naphthorhodafluors have also been made. Thus future long wavelength(and near-IR) analogs in these three families are syntheticallyaccessible through straightforward reaction schemes.

Ratiometric Behavior

The ratiometric pH dependent fluorescence of SNARF is well known. Thedual wavelength spectrum around pH=7 is due to the —OH and —O⁻ speciesrespectively. In this example, the OH and O— are the electron donors ina push-pull system, where deprotonation increases the strength of thedonation in a push-pull fluorophore and allows for additional tautomericforms.

Calculations on several analogs with a variety of substituents at thebottom of the molecule demonstrated a strongly electron-donating ringthat appears to provide a larger wavelength shift on deprotonation ofthe hydroxyl group. Examination of Hammett constants revealed that thecarboxylate anions on SNARF would also be slightly electron donating.

This knowledge can be used in creating a “ratiometric” glucose probe, tosatisfy the internal referencing situation (FIG. 44).

Design Strategy for pH-Based Glucose or Lactate Reporters

Esculetin (6,7 dihydroxycoumarin) pH Dependency

The pKa of esculetin was determined to be 7.5. The intensity of thefluorescence varies with pH but not the emission wavelength. Theabsorption spectrum did change with pH, implying the molecule could beused ratiometrically to measure pH using one monitoring wavelength andtwo excitation wavelengths. The relevant spectra are shown here togetherwith a plot of absorption ratio as a function of pH (FIG. 45).

Design Strategy for Other Glucose Reporting Structures

Crown Ethers

The molecular structure shown immediately below is a boron derivative ofa crown ether. Provided the boron still has affinity for alcohols, thestructure might be expected to bind with monosaccharide. Modeledmolecular mechanics of a crown ether with a fluorescein and rhodaminedye tethered to opposite sides of the ring. In one embodiment, the crownether is in a conformation in which the two dyes are brought into closeproximity to one another.

For the molecule drawn above, the electron density is compared with aconventional boronic acid. Calculations are run with ZINDO usingHyperChem. Calculations with crown ethers and glucose seem to positionthe glucose above the plane of the crown ether.

It is well known that such compounds have been used to detect thepresence of metal ions. Crown ethers are often used as phase transfercatalysts in organic chemistry. No reports of interactions betweenglucose or monosaccharides with crown ethers were identified. While notintending to be bound by theory, it is suggested that modifying the ringwith boron as previously described or by synthesis of a moreconventional boronic acid crown ether derivative would be expected toimprove the affinity of the ether for the saccharide.

Techniques for Placement of SMMRs into the Epidermis

For any of the embodiments described herein, a series of techniquesexist that allow the placement of specialized fluorescent or absorptivemolecules (SMMRs) into the epidermis, epithelial cells, or peripheralcells (for organs or muscle tissue during invasive surgery). Penetrationof the sensor composition can be accomplished using an active transporttechnique, such as, for example, electroporation, laser poration, sonicporation, ultrasonic poration, iontophoresis, mechanical poration,solvent transport, direct application by painting, tattooing methodsinvolving application by needle, an equivalent electrical tattooingtechnique; or most preferably by using passive transport using specialsolvent and reporter molecule mixtures. Passive transport may be used toallow small molecules of typically 100 Daltons (Da) to 1000 Da to entertissues and cells.

Exemplary methods for passive transport are pressurized delivery andwicking. The method is comprised of a direct measurement of thefluorescence of SMMRs placed within epidermal cells, i.e.,keratinocytes. This fluorescence is measured using molecules withspecific properties for defining glucose metabolism in epidermis and forinferring the magnitude of the change in fluorescence signal to bloodglucose concentrations.

Incorporation of a reporter into the tissue without use of an externaldevice is preferred, due to the reduced cost, convenience, and ease ofuse. Such a passive transdermal delivery solvent system must be accurateand safe. Thus, a more elaborate solvent regime must be applied thanthat used for the active mechanisms such as tattooing, electroporation,and ultrasonic poration. Suitable solvent systems useful for passivetransdermal delivery include creams, emulsions, and oils. These solventsystems provide passive transdermal stain delivery into the tissue at adepth of less than 50 microns. The following additives aid the processof tissue penetration for SMMR and create a diffusion rate enhancingsolvent system: Soybean Oil, Hazelnut Oil, Jojoba Oil, Sweet Almond Oil,Olive Oil, Calendula Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Wheat GermOil, refined Light Mineral Oil, Triundecanoin (Akomed C), Undecanoicacid, Caprylic/Capric Glycerides (Akoline MCM), Caprylic/CapricTriglycerides, Propylene glycoldiester of caprylic-/capric acid, Emuoil, all as low viscosity mixtures, preferably less than 35 cSt at 35°C. In addition, mixtures of one or more of the above oils in combinationwith a non-polar dilution solvent can also be used. The solvent systemis allowed to passively penetrate the tissue for from about 1 minute,about 5 minutes, about 10 minutes, about 30 minutes to about 2 hours toallow diffusion of the SMMR into the appropriate tissue layer(s).

In addition, penetration of the sensor composition to the desired depthcan be accomplished by combining the composition with various molecularsize attachments.

After the reporters are injected into, or applied to the surface of thetissue, they are allowed to penetrate in proximity to superficial cellsof tissues and organs at a depth from the surface of the cells of fromabout 10 μm to about 1500 μm. For measurement of specific metabolites,the preferred placement of the reporters should be near the surface ofthe tissue (i.e., about 10 to about 175 μm) yet be representative of theoverall metabolic state of the tissue in which the reporters are placed.The reporters may also be placed at a greater depth into the tissue. Theprecise placement of the reporters is controlled by the combination ofits molecular properties, including: specific molecular size (i.e., 100daltons to 100 kilodaltons), polarity, charge, structure, pKa,solubility, the size and type of molecular attachments or anchors, thesolvent system used, as well as the specific conditions used forporation (if required). A combination of these factors provides theability to control the location, diffusion rate, and duration orlifetime of the SMMR within the tissue or organ layers.

The dyes may be introduced into the skin by passive diffusion over aperiod of 24-48 hours, more preferably over a period of 2-6 hours, andmost preferably in 10 seconds to 5 minutes. Contemplated diffusion timesinclude periods less than 48 hrs, 24 hrs, 10 hrs, 6 hrs, 2 hrs, 1 hr, 30min, 15 min, 10 min, 5 min, 1 min, 30 sec, 10 sec, or 1 sec. Withpassive absorption, a molecule is placed on the surface of the skin andallowed to penetrate in proximity to the epidermal cells (keratinocytes)directly above the basal layer (stratum basale) at a depth from thesurface of skin from 10 μm to 50 μm and up to 175 μm in the pits of thestratum basale extending into the dermis between the dermal papillae.For measurement of glucose, the placement of the SMMR is below thestratum corneum yet above the dermis, more specifically in the stratumspinosum or stratum basale immediately above the upward extensions ofthe dermal papillae. This SMMR placement is accomplished by varying thecombination of the polarity and charge on the SMMR, the size ofmolecular attachments or anchors, as well as by the polarity andhydrophilicity characteristics of the solvent system. The specificconditions for poration or passive diffusion for placement of the SMMRin the skin are controllable factors. Using any combination of thesefactors, it is possible to control the localization of the dye withinthe skin layers and target cells.

Another embodiment of the reporter application involves the use of areservoir containing reporter, which is used to automatically ormanually dispense a dose of the reporter mixture topically prior toporation or passive transport. For measurement of metabolites andprecursors the reporter is placed in the tissue at a depth of up to 300μm. A solution of 10-400 μL volume made from 1-50 μM SMMR in a solventsystem penetrates into the tissue for some period of time to allowactivation following passive diffusion kinetics. Once activated thechange in fluorescence or absorption response of the tissue cells tochanges in extracellular and intracellular metabolite or precursorconcentrations is monitored directly using an optical reader. Irritantchemicals such as salicylic acid can be used to facilitate thepenetration of reporters into skin or peripheral tissue.

In another embodiment, a small disposable film patch composed ofpolyolefin, polyester, or polyacrylate and having an SMMR dispersed intoa transfer gel applied to the transfer side of the film patch, is usedfor SMMR application. The patch is applied with the gel side toward theskin and the gel contacts the external surface of the skin. Followingthe gel application, a poration or passive transfer technique is used tointroduce the mixture into the appropriate skin layer(s) (as describedabove). Another embodiment of the SMMR application involves the use of areservoir containing molecular tag or SMMR. This reservoir is used toeither automatically or manually dispense a dose of the SMMR mixturetopically prior to poration or passive transport. A non-limiting exampleof a topical dose is a small dot or spot from 100 μm to 5 mm. A smallerarea is preferred in most embodiments, but a larger area is alsocontemplated. For measurement of glucose, the SMMR is placed in thekeratinocytes at 30 μm to 50 μm and up to 175 μm so that placement isprecisely in the specific layer of the epidermis (e.g., above the dermalpapillae and within or above the stratum basale), within a comparativelyhomeostatic keratinocyte stratum. The molecular tag or SMMR penetratesinto the skin for some period of time (depending upon molecular size andsolvent mixture used) to allow activation following passive diffusionkinetics (i.e., mass transport). Once activated, the change influorescence response of the skin cells to changes of extracellular andintracellular glucose is monitored directly using an optical reader.

An active mechanism utilizing tissue permeation, electroporation, laserporation, or ultrasonic poration is another procedure for introducingSMMRs into the skin. Pulse lengths for poration technologies areprovided below. An example of an ultrasonic poration device includesthose manufactured by Sontra Medical Corporation, Cambridge Mass. Sontraand other commercial manufacturers of devices useful for thisapplication have previously described a method for sensing glucosedirectly in the interstitial fluid surrounding the skin cells byremoving fluid or gaining access to removed fluid for analysis. Seee.g., J A Tamada, M Lesho and M J Tierney, “Weekly Feature: KeepingWatch on Glucose—new monitors help fight the long-term complications ofdiabetes.” IEEE Spectrum Online, Jun. 10, 2003 at website:<http://www.spectrum.ieee.org/WEBONLY/publicfeature/apr02/glu.html>(last visited Jun. 26, 2003). The methods and compositions of theinvention do not remove fluid but, rather, place small quantities ofsolution containing low concentrations of SMMRs into the skin for directreading of the SMMR fluorescence spectral characteristics as anindication of both epidermal skin and blood glucose levels.

For some reporters above 1,000 daltons in size, electroporation may beused to introduce reporter into tissue. Electroporation has beenutilized for introducing chemotherapy treatments, for introduction ofDNA into living cells and tissues, and broadly recommended forintroducing materials into tissues for cosmetic or medical treatmentapplications. If poration schemes are used, the optimized settings foran electroporation device are achieved by commercially available or by acustomizable device having settings that provide conditions as describedwithin this invention. Commercial systems utilizing a square wavevoltage pulse have been described within the literature, such as thoseavailable from Genetronics Biomedical Corporation, 11199 Sorrento ValleyRoad, San Diego, Calif. 92121. Such a small device can be inexpensivelymade to have one or more constant settings for the optimized conditionsdisclosed for this invention.

Electroporation uses a short pulse electrical field to alter cellmembrane permeability. Micro-pores form in the membrane of skin cellsallowing the introduction of various molecular size mixtures into thecells at an appropriate depth of penetration for this specific inventiveapplication. When the electric field is discontinued, the cells returnto normal and one or more SMMRs introduced into the cell using thetechnique remains at the cellular site specifically within the epidermalcell until either the dye is chemically degraded and disposed of withinthe tissue or is sloughed off in a normal desquamating cycle. Theprocess of sloughing off (or desquamation) follows a normal ten-day totwenty-day (typically fourteen-day) cycle as the residence time ofepidermal keratinocytes moving from the basal layer (stratum basale) tothe desquamating layer of the stratum corneum.

When employed, electroporation is optimized for use in this invention byselection of voltage range (from about 40 to 90 Volts), gap distance(from about 0 to 2 mm), pulse length (from about 150 to 250 ms), numberor pulses (from about 1-10), pulse interval (from about 5 to 60 s),specific electrode design, and desired field strength (from about 40 to60 V/cm). In addition, the selection of molecular tag molecules, solventmolecules, concentration, and lag times relative to measurement onset isdetermined as precisely as possible. In certain embodiments, specificparameters are determined empirically using specific solvent and SMMRselection. For example, optimization of electroporation involves thefollowing specifications:

-   -   1. Output voltage range: 0 to +200 VDC;    -   2. Discharge capacitor (Cdis) values in microfarads are on or        about: 200, 500, 700, 1000, 1200, 1500, 1700 μF;    -   3. Pulse type: exponential decay;    -   4. Pulse RtCdis decay time constant where Rt (total)=5+Rskin in        parallel with 50 ohms. If Rskin>>50 ohms then Rt=55 ohms and        Rt×Cdis=11, 27.5, 38.5, 55, 66, 82.5, 93.5 milliseconds (ms).

Electroporation also facilitates the delivery of dyes bound to largemolecules that serve as anchors such as polymer beads, largepolysaccharides, or colloidal particles. These approaches arecontemplated as being within the invention, but are less advantageous inthat the particles are often too massive to pass through the stratumcorneum without active poration or mechanical injection. Once in theskin, they do not readily dissolve or organically reabsorb into thebody. Such less desirable approaches would create undesirable particlesthat would either remain in place indefinitely or accumulate in lymphnodes, in other circulatory cavities and/or in other organ sites.

Reporters of the invention can be made with specific properties suchthat they are retained only within skin cells (keratinocytes) where theyreport on glycolytic activity and do not harm or affect cellularmetabolism. These reporter compounds are sloughed off after a few days,even when permanently integrated into, or attached to, keratinocytecells. The small quantity of reporter(s) that diffuse away from theepidermis are rapidly degraded within the body and are completelyeliminated within a few days. In preferred embodiments, reapplication ofthe reporter(s) is relatively easy to perform. The process of sloughingoff (or desquamating) follows a normal ten-day to twenty-day (typicallyfourteen-day) cycle as the residence time of epidermal keratinocytesmoves from the basal layer (stratum basale) to the desquamating layer ofthe stratum corneum. Thus, reporters are developed to be applied onceevery 2 to 3 days, preferably every 3 to 4 days, and more preferablyevery 5 or more days.

More advanced solvent systems useful for passive transdermal deliveryinclude, but are not limited to, e.g., creams, emulsions (bothoil-in-water and water-in-oil), oils (ointments), gel film patches, areservoir device, paints, polar solvents and non-polar solvents.Non-polar solvents are preferred, as these are most miscible with theSMMRs of the invention and the stratum corneum lipids cementing thekeratinocyte lamellae in place. “Lipid solvent systems” have beenreported in the literature for use in transdermal drug delivery, and arecomposed to resemble the chemistry of stratum corneum lipids. Such amixture may also be used to place the SMMRs into the appropriate pointwithin the epidermis. Such a suggested mixture includes: (w/w): ceramide(50%), cholesterol (28%), palmitic acid (17%) and cholesteryl sulfate(5%). See, e.g., Downing et al.: Partition of dodecyl sulfate intostratum corneum lipid liposomes. Arch. Dermatol. Res. 1993, 285:151-157.

The objective of each of these solvent systems is to provide passivetransdermal SMMR delivery into the skin at a preferred depth of fromabout 10 to 175 μm (microns), more preferred from about 20 to 100microns, and most preferred from about 20 to 50 microns. For example,the following solvents as additives to the final SMMR mixtures are addedto the skin to initiate passive transport of the SMMR to the targetcellular site. The materials listed aid the process of skin penetrationfor SMMRs and create a diffusion rate enhancing solvent system fortransdermal delivery: dimethyl sulfoxide, ethanol, isopropanol,chloroform, acetic acid, saturated hydrocarbon solvent (with from 10 to40 carbons as linear or branched chained molecules), soybean oil,hazelnut oil, jojoba oil, sweet almond oil, olive oil, calendula oil,apricot kernel oil, grapeseed oil, wheat germ oil, refined light mineraloil and mineral oil spirits, triundecanoin (akomed C), undecanoic acid,caprylic/capric glycerides (akoline MCM), caprylic/capric triglycerides,propylene glycoldiester of caprylic-/capric acid, and emu oil. All arelow viscosity mixtures, preferably less than 35 cSt at 35° C. In certainembodiments, mixtures of one or more of the above oils are used incombination with a non-polar dilution solvent.

Factors that control the depth of penetration of the SMMR and itscompartmentalization into the cells and domains of the epidermis includethe polarity and partition coefficient of the SMMR as well as thesolvent and the molecular size. The SMMR compound may also bederivatized so that it is readily taken up by the cell and then actedupon by enzymes that chemically alter the SMMR to prevent it fromleaking out of the cell. One advantage of this type of approach is thatthe SMMR is only taken up in its active form by viable cells. Predictiveschemes for determining appropriate derivatization of SMMR compounds areprovided below. Alternative methods of derivatization well known tothose skilled in the art are also contemplated as part of the invention.

The physical properties of the solvent system that strongly influencepermeability in the skin include the molecular size, the vapor pressure,the water solubility, and the octanol water coefficient. Smallermolecular size increases the diffusion coefficient. The vapor pressurecontrols the balance between diffusion into the skin and evaporationfrom the surface. The water solubility and the octanol water partitioncoefficient determine the miscibility of the SMMR solution betweenaqueous interstitial fluid and hydrophobic core of the cell membrane.

For a passive solvent delivery system, the depth of penetration of theSMMR is strongly dependent on the volume of solvent added. Typically,the volume of SMMR used is from 10 μL to less than about 100 μL.Preferably, the concentration of SMMR is from 10 to 500 μM, morepreferably from 100 to 300 μM, and most preferably from 150 to 250 μM.Target cells are exposed to extracellular concentrations in the range of1 to 10 μM. Dilution of the SMMR concentration arises because of thediffusion properties from the surface of the tissue to the target cellsite.

The proposed volume range added to the skin or other tissue ispreferably from 1 to 50 μL, more preferably from 5 to 20 μL, and mostpreferably from 5 to 15 μL. Alternatively, a gel patch is usedcontaining an SMMR coated surface of approximately 6 mm in diameterconsisting of a concentration of SMMR preferably from 10 to 500 μM, morepreferably from 100 to 300 μM, and most preferably from 150 to 250 μM.

Solvent systems used for SMMRs may be adjusted depending upon theirmolecular properties and compatibility with the specific SMMR beingdelivered. For example, solvent hydrophobicity and polarity are notedalong with the solubility properties of the SMMR, which will all have aneffect on the movement of the SMMR into the tissue. Each SMMR has acertain affinity for the solvent and the tissue. The solvent's activityfor delivering the SMMR directly to target tissue is a matter forempirical testing. One preferred embodiment of the invention uses anSMMR dissolved in DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) and further diluted in asaturated hydrocarbon solvent (with from 10 to 40 carbons as linear orbranched chained molecules), or an alcohol (with from 2 to 4 carbons) ata volume ratio of 5:95 to 20:80, respectively. The optimum volume ofDMSO in the delivery solvent is less than 20 percent, as the DMSO isused to facilitate dissolution of the SMMR into the carrier hydrocarbonmixture. The mixture is added to the tissue in the concentrations andvolumes described above.

A gel patch may be used to apply the SMMR. In one embodiment, a gelcontains the SMMR in a volatile hydrocarbon solvent in suspension with apolymer such as PVA (polyvinyl alcohol). When placed against the skin orother living tissue, the heat of the skin causes the SMMR (dissolved inthe PVA-hydrocarbon solvent) to diffuse into the skin. The finaldiffusion depth is controlled by length of application time. Volumesbelow 100 μL minimize extraneous transdermal delivery and maximizedelivery into the epidermis target area. Optimum passive solventdelivery is attained by using a solvent mixture or emulsion thatfacilitates the movement of SMMR across the stratum corneum into theepidermis, but then dissipates rapidly to limit movement of the SMMRaway from the target area. Solvent systems that have the lowest toxicityinclude water, saturated hydrocarbon oils, polyethylene glycols andglycerol. Solvents systems that include alcohols and dimethyl sulfoxideare less favored in this application since these solvents are lessbiologically inert.

The SMMRs are applied directly to the surface of the skin and thenpassively allowed to penetrate the skin for a period of 1 minute to 5hours, more preferably less than 4 hours, and most preferably less than1 hour. Ideally, a solvent delivery system would be developed to provideSMMR delivery to the target tissue in less than 1 hour, more preferablyless than 30 minutes, and most preferably in less than 5 minutes. Thistime period allows the passive diffusion of the SMMRs into theappropriate epidermal cells.

Once the one or more SMMRs are activated as a result of placement withinthe skin, measuring fluorescence monitors the response of the skin cellsto glucose. As described herein, the fluorescence mechanism used iseither a direct or indirect indication of the glucose concentration inthe target cell environment. Fluorescence is typically measured using anoptical reader. The optical reader calculates the skin response toglucose, applies first principles mathematical models to the response(as described below and shown in FIG. 7), and provides a determinationof the blood glucose levels (See FIGS. 3, 8-9). The choice of theparticular commercially available or custom designed optical reader thatis compatible for use with the methods and compositions of thisinvention is within the ability of one skilled in the art of theinvention.

Apparatus and Methodology for Glucose Detection Using SMMRs

Instrumentation Required for Reporter Monitoring

The instrumentation required to detect changes in reporter signal mayconsist of simple light emitting diode sources combined with low-costsolid-state detectors. The mechanism of signal extraction relating to abiochemical or physiological process is derived from the elucidation andmeasurement of key metabolic pathways. The reporters are excited, andthe remitted energy detected over the wavelength region of 190 nm to 850nm (See FIG. 38). The three mechanisms of measurement for metabolites orprecursors using the reporters of the invention include (1) usingreporters to increase the signal-to-noise of native autofluorescencesignals indicative of human reductive metabolism [FADH₂, NADH, andNAD(P)H], (2) using reporters for selection and enhancement of specificmetabolite and precursor signals in tissue that are indicative ofmetabolic state and allow determination of changes in metabolism [Ca²⁺,lactate, oxygen], and (3) using reporters to directly measure thepresence of intracellular or extracellular molecular metabolites[protein-FL, and protein-³FAD*].

All three mechanisms of signal identification and enhancement allowutilization of low-cost, hand held spectrophotometric equipment (e.g.,LED excitation and diode detectors) that is simple in design and doesnot require advanced or complicated computational algorithms. Suchequipment is not harmful to subjects and requires just an additionaldisposable component (other than a calibration strip) to prepare thesubject for metabolite monitoring. A measurement device approximatelythe size of a personal cell phone having quality features, such as thosewhich allow the user to determine whether a specific measurement isvalid, or whether a repeat measurement is required, can be used. Such ahand-held, battery powered device is intended to be used eitheroccasionally, or on a continuous, real-time monitoring basis forsubjects requiring serious health management regimes. A singlecalibration allows continuous monitoring for up to several hours. Acalibration technology that utilizes a calibration strip, which mimicsthe optical response of the subject and allows freedom from continuouscorrection using primary analysis devices, can be used. Othercalibration technologies contemplated by the invention will be readilydiscerned by those skilled in the art.

As an example, to use the device, the subject or physician prepares thearea to be measured using the enhancement technology, which is painlessand requires a patch (similar in appearance to a Band-Aid® bandage),paint, or spray to be applied to the targeted tissue area. Thistreatment conditions the tissue area for from a few minutes up to 30days, depending upon the SMMR properties selected and the depth at whichit has been deposited in the subject tissue. The device is thencalibrated using a calibration strip and is ready to make measurementsfor up to 2 hours or more, without requiring additional calibration. Thesubject or physician examines the conditioned area with the sensor andmakes a measurement. Typically, the measurement takes less than about 5seconds, and the sensor provides the appropriate metaboliteconcentration or reports that a repeat measurement is required.

In another embodiment, if the photophysics of fluorescent dyes areconsidered, the fluorescence changes associated with the SMMR and theanalyte may also be monitored using fluorescence lifetime technology.One preferred embodiment for such a hand held device capable ofmeasuring lifetime changes is to use a phase and modulationspectrometer, which is a device constructed from a radio frequencymodulated light emitting diode and a miniature photomultiplier orphotodiode, whose signal is amplified by a phase sensitive amplifier.Such devices have been well characterized in the literature and arecommercially available in a variety of forms. Manufacturers of suchdevices include: Photon Technology International, Inc., 1009 LenoxDrive, Lawrenceville, N.J. 08648; PicoQuant GmbH, Rudower Chaussee 29(IGZ) 12489 Berlin, Germany; Tecan Systems Inc., 2450 Zanker Road, SanJose, Calif. 95131; Thermo Oriel, 150 Long Beach Blvd., Stratford, Conn.06615. These devices measure both the degree of modulation of thefluorophore and the phase shift of the emission relative to theexcitation light, and these two parameters are then related to thelifetime of the dye. Determination of these parameters at a number offrequencies increases the accuracy of the device.

Phase Sensitive Flash Photolysis Apparatus

A suggested sensing apparatus can be miniaturized and measurement of thephase shift gives an indication of the lifetime of the transientspecies. This is an advantage over single pulse flash photolysisapparatus that typically require mJ pulse energies to generate transientspecies with sufficiently high concentration to be observed. In oneembodiment, the apparatus described here is capable of detectingtransients with a change in absorption of 10⁻⁵ (FIG. 46).

This apparatus is miniaturisable and the phase shift gives an indicationof the lifetime of the transient. This is an advantage over single pulseflash photolysis apparatus that typically require mJ pulse energies togenerate transient species with sufficiently high concentration to beobserved. In one embodiment, the apparatus described here is capable ofdetecting transients with a Δ absorption of 10⁻⁵.

The diffuse reflectance light is modulated by the absorption of thetransient therefore the instrument will reject scattered light.Selectivity is improved over a conventional spectrometer because therequirements for a transient to be detected are that the ground statehas absorb at the correct wavelength, the transient species generatedhas to absorb at the correct wavelength and the transient generated hasto have a defined lifetime. Triplet states typically have very differentabsorption spectra than ground state species and may occur at longer orshorter wavelengths than the ground state. This is an advantage overfluorescent molecules with small Stokes shift.

Dual processor, 1 GHz computer set up with Spartan.

The idea of using light to drive enzymatic reactions is not new (see forexample http://chem.ch.huji.ac.i1/˜eugeniik/photo_enzymes3.htm).However, taking the cofactor from an enzyme and designing a smallmolecule system that can be driven to carry out the same reaction in thepresence of light has not been reported. Enzymatic reactions arecatalyzed essentially by shifting the position of equilibrium when thereactants are brought into close proximity. Photochemical reactions arepowered by the energy supplied by photons. This is considerable; togenerate the same number of excited states in a sample with anabsorption of 1 and molar absorption coefficient of 10⁵ dm³ mol⁻¹cm⁻¹,with 1 mJ of 400 nm light would require a temperature of nearly 30,000degrees Celsius!

The Brunet paper [Brunet, 2002 #562] refers to some theoretical studiesthat show, in the excited state there is an increase in the dipolemoment. This change is brought about by an increase of electron densityon the carbonyl groups. The magnitude of this change is not sufficientto generate a charge transfer state but it is obvious if the binding ofan analyte interferes with the charge distribution of the excited statethen this would provide a sensitive transduction mechanism. A change inelectron density with the binging of glucose is caused by the use aboronic acid. The Brunet behavior can be modeled using Spartan.

Measured the repetition rate of the nanolase 355 nm tripled YAG. Usingthe 500 MHz Tektronix scope and a photodiode the frequency is 9 kHz.This is consistent for a transient with a lifetime of about 40 μs.

Set up the flash photolysis. Calculated using a 5 mJ laser at 9 kHz, anOD of 1 and a difference absorption coefficient of 45000, then for a 1cm pathlength an OD should be 0.006. This should be simple to measure. Achange in oxygen concentration with a porphyrin can also be detected.Subsequent experiments involve glucose oxidase.

Apparatus set up. The apparatus has been set up as follows: Themonitoring light wavelength is chosen where there is maximum differencebetween the excited state absorption and the ground state absorption.The excitation wavelength is chosen where there is maximum absorption ofthe ground state. The photomultiplier is coupled to a lock-in amplifier.The trigger diode generated the signal for the reference channel. Theexcitation source used in this experiment was a nanolase tripled YAGthat has repetition frequency of 9 kHz. A telescope was made from amicroscope objective and a cylindrical lens (FIG. 47).

The experiment was carried out with a solution of deuteroporphyrin inethanol. The sample was flushed with nitrogen first to remove dissolvedoxygen. Under these conditions, the lifetime of the excited tripletstate should be about 100 μs. The difference molar absorptioncoefficient is about 40,000 dm³ M⁻¹ cm⁻¹. The laser energy was measuredat the sample to be 1.8 mJ. With these figures, it was calculated thatthe sample should generate a transient with a difference absorption ofabout 0.006. Although the lock-in amplifier detected a signal, the phaseshift of this signal did not change when oxygen was readmitted into thesample and is probably residual fluorescence.

Instead of using the lock-in amplifier, the signal from the PMT wascoupled to a Tektronix 500 MHz digital scope. Averaging 512 pulses, itis possible to observe a change in absorption of about 0.01% thatcorresponds to an absorption change of about 4×10⁻⁵. No transient at allwas observed under these conditions; however, such a small transient canbe measured using this device. It would be expected that even smallersignals could be observed with the lock-in amplifier. The sensitivity ofthe system would be sufficient to observe electron transfer in glucoseoxidase in the presence of glucose.

Chromatography on Saccharide Solutions Containing Glucose

The purpose of this experiment is to set up a chromatography system thatcan be used to separate glucose from other saccharides and to detectglucose using Arg-327. To set the chromatography system up we need arapid reliable test for glucose. HPLC methods use amperometric methodsor refractive index changes to monitor saccharides. Two well knownmethods are the Fehling's test for reducing sugars and to use enzymeactivity.

The Fehling's method uses two solutions commonly known as Fehling's Aand B. Fehling's A consists of 7 g of hydrated copper(II) sulfatedissolved in 100 mL of distilled water. Fehling's B is made bydissolving 35 g of potassium sodium tartrate and 10 g of sodiumhydroxide in 100 mL of distilled water. The Fehling's reagent is madefrom equal volumes of Fehling's A and Fehling's B are mixed to form adeep blue solution. The test is really one for aldehydes and since asmall percentage of solvated glucose exists in an open chain, aldehydeform, it gives a positive result to the test.

The cupric ion in the Fehling's A solution acts as a mild oxidizingagent, the tartrate complexes with the cupric ion and prevents copperhydroxide from precipitating from solution. The overall reaction is:

Cuprous oxide is insoluble in water and forms a brick red precipitate.The oxidation of glucose could be carried out photochemically togenerate fluorescent products.

The method chosen to develop the chromatographic system is an enzymaticone. The method is quantitative and relatively specific:

An equimolar amount of NADH is generated for the amount of glucoseconsumed. The NADH may be monitored by either its absorption at 340 nmor its emission at 450 nm.

The proposed experiment is to set up a number of small packed columnsand to determine the optimum conditions for viewing of the glucoseeluting from the column.

In Vitro Glucose Probe not Requiring Strip Use

This probe is made by attaching Arg-327 to the end of fiber optic andmonitoring the fluorescence of this material using the followingapparatus (FIG. 48).

The device is calibrated by dipping the end of the fiber in glucose freemedium and a known concentration of glucose. Dipping the fiber into anunknown glucose solution then gives a fluorescence response that iscorrelated with the glucose concentration. A suitable dye to carry outthis experiment is Arg-327.

To develop a strip type of device two approaches were used. First,slurries of materials that may be used as TLC plates were made andsecondly different materials were tried in order to image spots ofglucose placed on the plates.

Plates were made up by dipping clean microscope slides in slurries ofSilica, TiO₂ and Carbomer 981 in methanol. Of these, the plates madewith TiO₂ came out the most uniform. If the silica used for these platesis too coarse, commercial plates can be used. The Carbomer 981 slurrythat dries to a clear film is a commercial material that is used tocontrol viscosity in cosmetics.

To view glucose spotted onto commercial silica plates 10% (w/v)solutions of chloranil and phenyl boronic acid were co-spotted with theglucose (300-mg/dL) and the result viewed under UV light. Chloranil wasused because it is an oxidant and is known to undergo a color changewhen it is reduced. Phenyl boronic acid was used as a model compound forArg-327 since it can be viewed under UV light. There is some indicationthat the chloranil reacted with the glucose.

The experiment was repeated with alkaline glucose.

Used Arg-327 as one of the visualizing materials. Compared chloranil andArg-327 at a concentration of 1% (w/v) with and without glucose. Thereis visually little difference between the spot with and without glucose.A dark spot can be seen with chloranil and glucose. Also spotted theplate with 1%, 0.1% and 0.01% Arg-327. All three spots are visible butthe dynamic range that can be judged with the eye is poor.

A sample of Rose Bengal was made up and run on the apparatus to observetransient absorption.

Measured fluorescence with fluorolog. Fitted the fluorolog with the 3 mmfiber bundle. The fluorescence of the Arg-327 decreases by about 30% inthe presence of glucose. This is the opposite of what happens insolution. Plates can be pretreated with the Arg-327 and/or a gel can beused as the stationary phase.

Strip Technology

To build a monitor using strip technology different chemistry to beapplied. Molecules bound to gold surfaces can be used to increase thefluorescence quantum yield. Applying this idea to strip technologyallows one to link fluorophores to a gold surface. The fluorophore goldlinkage is synthesized by incorporating a thiol group on thechromophore, i.e.

The hydrocarbon chain —(CH₂)_(n)— is of such a length that thefluorescence of the dye is enhanced by the proximity of the gold surface[see for example, “Intrinsic fluorescence from DNA can be enhanced bymetallic particles.” Biochem. Biophys. Res. Comm. Lakowicz, J. R., Shen,B., Gryczynski, Z., D'Auria, S. and Gryczynski, I. (2001) 286 875-879and references therein.]. The correct length for the chain is determinedexperimentally. If the chain is too short then the fluorescence of themolecule is quenched completely, if the chain is too long then there isno surface effect. This phenomenon allows molecules to be designed thathave a sensitive transduction mechanism for the presence of glucose;their fluorescence properties are dependent on the presence of the goldsurface. Such technology may be incorporated either into a strip typedevice or into a MEMS type device. If a fiber tip was coated with a filmof gold then this type of molecule could be bonded to the fiber by theinteraction of the SH and the gold film.Compounds Used for Glucose Fluorescent Strip Demonstration

AF-327d is a re-synthesis. In parallel, we will make and test theBenzocoumarin analog, due to the expectation that it may have a longeremission wavelength, if it's fluorescent.

Strip Design

The use of strip type technology opens up a number of possibilities thatare not available to non-invasive technologies. Patents that have beenpublished for strip technology include features to facilitate blood flowon the strip and to remove confounding factors such as red blood cells.

For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,708,247 issued to Lifescan includesfeatures such as a silica filter to remove red blood cells and a mesh toguide the liquid sample to the electrodes on the strip.

The construction of a strip for a spectroscopic sensor uses some ofthese features to improve selectivity and to ensure rapid mixing of theblood glucose and the sensor material (FIG. 49). Prototype substrateshave been manufactured from glass, which may be difficult to engineerbut is convenient to use as a reusable prototyping breadboard intesting.

The following patterns have been milled in glass. Each of the patternsdescribed is 0.6 mm deep. Each substrate is 75 mm×25 mm×1 mm.

The gray strips are an area where the prototype can be labeled; thegreen area is the cutout to a depth of 0.6 mm. Other shapes were alsogenerated but these were the most accurate and reproducible to be made.The green portion of each slide may be filled with aqueous or alcoholicgels, with silica and the third slide also has a region to applysolvents.

For the experiments that were carried out with these systems a silicaderivatized with a four carbon chain was used. The silica was applied ina methanol slurry and the solvent allowed to dry. The derivatizationprevents interaction of the silica with the boronic acid sensor.

The technology is using chromatography to separate glucose in the bloodfrom proteins and cellular material. The development time for the stripis dependent on the dimensions of the cutout. The sample is applied atone end of the strip and interaction between the glucose and the sensoroccurs at the other end. Prototype 2 may be used to look simply at theinteraction of the sensor molecule and glucose.

Using this type of approach, molecules that have a large response to thepresence of glucose but poor selectivity may be used as the sensor withinterfering substances being removed by the material on the substrate.

Silica gels were the only material tried on these plates but othermaterials that would be suitable include aqueous and methanolic gels.The physical dimensions of the strip and the nature of the gel or silicadetermine how rapidly the strip responds to the presence of glucose.

If the solutions are brought together on plate 2, with no mixing thenthe response time may be as much as 100 seconds. By filling the cavitywith small beads or silica, capillary action can greatly speed up themixing time.

This type of technology also lends itself to the use of fluorescentsensors on gold films. By controlling the distance between the goldsurface and the fluorophore the quantum yield of the material can beincreased to unity. This phenomenon has been described many times in theliterature. The advantage of this kind of approach to us is that thechemical synthesis of the molecule can concentrate on the transductionmechanism by which the binding of the glucose causes a change in themolecule. The quantum yield of the system is controlled by the goldsurface.

REFERENCES

-   1. J. Boeseken, Advan. Carbohydrate Chem., 4, 189 (1949), C. A.    Zittle, Advan. Enzymology, 12, 493 (1951).-   2. H. G. Kuivila, et al., J. Org. Chem., 19, 780 (1954); J. P.    Lorand and J. O. Edwards, J. Org Chem., 24, 769 (1959).-   3. Lakowicz; Sinkurai; Shinkai; Wang; Singaram; James;-   4. G. Springsteen and B Wang, Tetrahedron, 58, 5291 (2002)-   5. Arabinose Binding Protein, 1ABE: N. K. Vyas, et al., Nature, 310,    381 (1984); Galactose/Glucose Binding Protein 1GLG; Ribose Binding    Protein 2DRI.-   6. “Biosensor” H. W. Hellinga, U.S. Pat. No. 6,277,627; Aug. 21,    2001; R. M. Delorimer, et al., Protein Science, 11, 2655    (2002); J. S. Marvin and H. W. Hellinga, J. AM Chem Soc., 120, 7    (1998); L. L. Looger, M. A. Dwyer, J. J. Smith, and H. W. Hwllinga,    Nature, 423, 185 (2003).-   7. W. Yang, et al., Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., 40, 1714 (2001). H.    Eggert, et al., J. Org. Chem., 64, 3846 (1999). G. Deng, et al., J.    Amer. Chem. Soc., 116, 4567 (1994). T. D. James, et al., J. Amer.    Chem. Soc., 117, 8982 (1995).-   8. R. E. Dolle, J. Combinatorial Chem., 2, 383 (2000).

EQUIVALENTS

Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain usingno more than routine experimentation, numerous equivalents to thespecific procedures described herein. Such equivalents are considered tobe within the scope of the invention. Various substitutions,alterations, and modifications may be made to the invention withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention. Other aspects,advantages, and modifications are within the scope of the invention. Thecontents of all references, issued patents, and published patentapplications cited throughout this application are hereby incorporatedby reference. The appropriate components, processes, and methods ofthose patents, applications and other documents may be selected for theinvention and embodiments thereof.

1. A small molecule metabolite reporter compound of the followingformula:

wherein D is a heteroatom; R₁ and R₂ are different and are selected fromthe group consisting of H, OH, NH₂, NO₂, OCH₃, N(CH₃)₂, A, or, R₁ andR₂, taken together with the ring to which they are attached, form R₇; R₃and R₄ are different and are selected from the group consisting of H,

 OH, B(OH)₂, M, or R₃ and R₄, taken together with the ring to which theyare attached, form R₈; R₅ and R₆ are different and are selected from thegroup consisting of H or

 wherein Q is H, COOH, B(OH)₂, or M; A is

R₇ is

R₈ is

M is

L, when present, is an amino-containing linking moiety; R₁ and R₂, andR₃ and R₄, are adjacent to each other on the rings on which they reside;and at least one boronic acid moiety is present; and salts thereof. 2.The reporter compound of claim 1, wherein D is N or O.
 3. A smallmolecule metabolite reporter compound of the following formula:

wherein R₁ and R₂ are different and may be A, or, R₁ and R₂, takentogether with the ring to which they are attached, form R₇; R₃ and R₄are different and are selected from the group consisting of H,

 OH, B(OH)₂, M, or R₃ and R₄, taken together with the ring to which theyare attached, form R₈; R₆ is

A is

R₇ is

R₈ is

M is

L, when present, is an amino-containing linking moiety; and R₁ and R₂,and R₃ and R₄, are adjacent to each other on the rings on which theyreside; and salts thereof.
 4. A small molecule metabolite reportercompound of the following formula:

wherein R₁ and R₂ are different and are selected from the groupconsisting of H, OH, NH₂, NO₂, OCH₃, N(CH₃)₂, A, or, R₁ and R₂, takentogether with the ring to which they are attached, form R₇; R₃ and R₄are different and are selected from the group consisting of H,

OH, M, or R₃ and R₄, taken together with the ring to which they areattached, form R₈; R₅ and R₆ are different and are selected from thegroup consisting of H or

 wherein Q is H or M; A is

R₇ is

R₈ is

M is

L, when present, is an amino-containing linking moiety; and R₁ and R₂,and R₃ and R₄, are adjacent to each other on the rings on which theyreside; and salts thereof.
 5. A small molecule metabolite reportercompound of the following formula:

wherein M is

L, when present, is an amino-containing linking moiety; and saltsthereof.
 6. A small molecule metabolite reporter compound of thefollowing formula:

wherein D is a heteroatom (e.g., O or N); R₉ is H, OH, CH₃, CF₃, M, oran amino or substituted amino group; R₁₀ is H, CH₃, or M; R₁₁, R₁₂, andR₁₃ are individually H, OH, alkoxy, M, or an amino or substituted aminogroup; R₁₄, when present, is H or CH₃; M is

at least one boronic acid moiety is present; and salts thereof.
 7. Atopical sensor composition comprising a compound of any one of claims 1through 6, and a carrier or binder:
 8. A method of measuring a compoundor metabolite thereof, comprising contacting a reporter compound of thefollowing formula:

wherein D is a heteroatom; R₁ and R₂ are different and are selected fromthe group consisting of H, OH, NH₂, NO₂, OCH₃, N(CH₃)₂, A, or, R₁ andR₂, taken together with the ring to which they are attached, form R₇; R₃and R₄ are different and are selected from the group consisting of H,

 OH, B(OH)₂, M, or R₃ and R₄, taken together with the ring to which theyare attached, form R₈; R₅ and R₆ are different and are selected from thegroup consisting of H or

 wherein Q is H, COOH, B(OH)₂, or M; A is

R₇ is

R₈ is

M is

L, when present, is an amino-containing linking moiety; R₁ and R₂, andR₃ and R₄, are adjacent to each other on the rings on which they reside;and at least one boronic acid moiety is present; and salts thereof;which reporter compound is sensitive to the presence of said compound ormetabolite thereof, with an area of the body where said metabolites maybe found, and detecting a photometric change in said reporter compoundindicative of said metabolite.
 9. A method of measuring a compound ormetabolite thereof, comprising contacting a reporter compound of thefollowing formula:

wherein R₁ and R₂ are different and may be A, or, R₁ and R₂, takentogether with the ring to which they are attached, form R₇; R₃ and R₄are different and are selected from the group consisting of H,

OH, B(OH)₂, M, or R₃ and R₄, taken together with the ring to which theyare attached, form R₈; R₆ is

A is or

R₇ is

R₈ is

M is

L, when present, is an amino-containing linking moiety; and R₁ and R₂,and R₃ and R₄, are adjacent to each other on the rings on which theyreside; and salts thereof; which reporter compound is sensitive to thepresence of said compound or metabolite thereof, with an area of thebody where said metabolites may be found, and detecting a photometricchange in said reporter compound indicative of said metabolite.
 10. Amethod of measuring a compound or metabolite thereof, comprisingcontacting a reporter compound of the following formula:

wherein R₁ and R₂ are different and are selected from the groupconsisting of H, OH, NH₂, NO₂, OCH₃, N(CH₃)₂, A, or, R₁ and R₂, takentogether with the ring to which they are attached, form R₇; R₃ and R₄are different and are selected from the group consisting of H,

 OH, M, or R₃ and R₄, taken together with the ring to which they areattached, form R₈; R₅ and R₆ are different and are selected from thegroup consisting of H or

 wherein Q is H or M; A is

R₇ is

R₈ is

M is

L, when present, is an amino-containing linking moiety; and R₁ and R₂,and R₃ and R₄, are adjacent to each other on the rings on which theyreside; and salts thereof; which reporter compound is sensitive to thepresence of said compound or metabolite thereof, with an area of thebody where said metabolites may be found, and detecting a photometricchange in said reporter compound indicative of said metabolite.
 11. Themethod of any one of claims 8 through 10, wherein said area of the bodyis skin.
 12. The method of any one of claims 8 through 10, wherein saidarea of the body is the layer of the skin known as stratum corneum. 13.The method of any one of claims 8 through 10, wherein said area of thebody is the layer of the skin known as epidermis.
 14. The method of anyone of claims 8 through 10, wherein said area of the body is the layerof the skin known as dermis.
 15. The method of any one of claims 8through 10, wherein said compound is glucose.